As a person with interstitial cystitis (IC), getting a urinary tract infection is the equivalent of pouring gasoline on a fire. So, I do everything I can to avoid getting one (and help my fellow ICers do the same).
One question that’s come up a lot in online forums (like way, way too many Reddit threads) is whether or not masturbation can cause a UTI. To clear things up, I reached out to the experts to find out what’s really going on.
In this post, I’ll cover how UTIs happen, prevention tips, and what to do if you suspect that firey bitch is headed your way.
What is a UTI?
A urinary tract infection, or UTI, is a very common infection that can affect any part of your urinary system, including your kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. According to the Cleveland Clinic, approximately 50% of women will get a UTI at some point during their lives. And it’s not a discriminatory condition: UTIs affect both women and men of all ages.
“UTIs typically occur when bacteria, commonly Escherichia coli from the gut, enter the urinary tract, often via the urethra,” Martina Ambardjieva, MD, urologist, teaching assistant, and PhD grad, tells FemmeFunn. “This can happen due to improper wiping or transferring bacteria from the genitals or anus to the urethral opening during touch.”
If you’ve never had one (consider yourself lucky!), some key symptoms to look out for include frequency (feeling the need to pee more often than usual), painful urination, and blood in the urine. If there’s blood in your urine, pressure, or cramping in your lower abdomen, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Is a UTI a sexually transmitted infection?
No, a UTI is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the classic sense; you can’t “catch” a UTI from a partner like you would an STI. However, sexual activity can increase the risk of developing a UTI.
“Sexual activity, especially penetrative intercourse, is a well-known risk factor for UTIs, particularly in individuals with vulvas,” says Dr. Ambardjieva. “In young women, cystitis is sometimes referred to as ‘honeymoon cystitis’ due to the increased risk associated with the mechanical introduction of bacteria into the urethra during intercourse,” adding that, “Even non-penetrative sexual activities, such as oral sex or genital stimulation, can pose a risk if bacteria are transferred via hands, mouths, or objects.”
Can masturbation cause a UTI?
Masturbation alone is unlikely to cause a UTI.
“It’s possible for masturbation to cause a UTI, but not necessarily from masturbating itself, but due to related hygiene practices, or lack thereof,” Jessie Klein, a pelvic floor physical therapist at Willow Pelvic Health, tells FemmeFunn. “UTIs happen when bacteria are introduced into the urinary tract.”
Other ways the bacteria that cause UTIs make their way into your urinary tract:
➡️ Not washing your hands before touching your sensitive bits
➡️ Using saliva as lube (please do not do this)
➡️ Touching your anus, then your genitals, during masturbation (don’t cross-contaminate!)
➡️ Using sex toys that aren’t cleaned between uses
➡️ Using sex toys with a partner without cleaning between users (this is also how STIs happen!)
You may also be unknowingly increasing your risk of a UTI if you:
➡️ Hold your pee (like on a long trip or during a movie)
➡️ Are dehydrated
➡️ Are taking certain types of medications or supplements
➡️ Use diaphragms or certain spermacides
➡️ Have certain medical conditions (like diabetes or anything that suppresses the immune system)
➡️ Experience hormonal changes
Even tampons, if left in for too long, can encourage bacterial growth and may lead to a UTI.
Is it safe to masturbate with a UTI?
While you can masturbate with a UTI, it’s unlikely you’ll want to.
The symptoms of a UTI (the constant urge to pee, the burning sensation when you do) are enough to keep even the horniest of us at bay. Not to mention, masturbating with a UTI can make the inflammation and irritation in your urethra even worse.
“If someone has a UTI, I would recommend they wait to masturbate until the infection has cleared,” says Klein.
If you do choose to masturbate while fighting a UTI, experts recommend always washing your hands thoroughly before touching your genitals. But, it’s probably best to just give your body a break to heal. You can come another day.
How to Prevent a UTI After Masturbating
If you’re super worried about getting UTIs (girl, I get it), there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk.
➡️ Wash up: We’re not the type to say your pussy should smell like flowers, but if you have recurring UTIs or a sensitive urethra, it’s never a bad idea to keep things clean. “Always wash hands before and after masturbation or sex,” advises Dr. Ambardjieva.
➡️ Pee afterwards, every single time: This is super annoying, but it’s an important tip to follow. Urinating after sexual activity of any kind can help flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra during masturbation. (You’ll also want to stay hydrated!)
➡️ Keep your toys clean: Your toys should be as clean as your kitty. Wash sex toys thoroughly with warm water and soap (or a really good toy cleaner) after each use. And, if you’re into DP, make sure you keep those toys separate. If you really want to be safe, Dr. Ambardjieva recommends covering your toys with a condom before use.
Klein also notes that people who have recurring UTIs may want to shower or bathe after masturbation or sex. In severe cases, she says taking preventative medication (I’ve done this) might be an option, but should only be done under the supervision of a medical professional.
What to Do If You Get a UTI (Treatment Options and When to See a Doctor)
The moment you notice symptoms like burning during urination, frequent urges to pee, or cloudy urine, it’s time to act. Do not just buy a pack of Azo and go about your day — if you mask the problem, it’s just going to get worse (and then you may need a visit to the ER later).
“If symptoms persist for more than a day, or if there’s fever, flank pain, or nausea, it’s important to see a doctor,” says Dr. Ambardjieva. “Untreated UTIs can progress to kidney infections.”
After that, your doctor will most likely prescribe you a round of antibiotics.
The Bottom Line
While masturbating alone is unlikely to cause a UTI, practicing poor hygiene during solo play can increase your risk. Prioritizing good hygiene (e.g., washing your hands and toys, and peeing after you play) is the easiest way to prevent UTIs and enjoy some solo time without worrying about infections.
Listen to your body. If something feels off or if you experience UTI symptoms, call your doctor or head to an Urgent Care. The quicker you act, the quicker you can get back to feeling yourself.
Remember: Taking care of your sexual health is just another important part of taking care of you.