Why Men Should Know About This Common Infection Risk

Health Points

• Men can develop urinary tract infections, though they’re far less common than in women due to anatomical differences
• Sexual activity does not directly transmit UTIs, but physical contact can introduce bacteria that may cause infection in susceptible individuals
• Proper hygiene practices and staying hydrated are key prevention strategies for both partners

Urinary tract infections are often considered a women’s health issue, but men can develop them too—and understanding the connection to intimate contact matters for couples of all ages.

While UTIs affect women at significantly higher rates, men aren’t immune to these uncomfortable infections. The question of whether sexual activity plays a role in male UTIs has a more nuanced answer than many realize.

“UTIs are not sexually transmitted infections,” explains Dr. Jennifer Linehan, a urologist and associate professor of urology and oncology. “However, sexual activity can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, which may lead to an infection in either partner.”

The anatomical differences between men and women explain why infection rates vary so dramatically. Women have a shorter urethra—the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body—which means bacteria have a shorter distance to travel to reach the bladder.

Men’s longer urethras provide more natural protection against bacterial invasion. This structural advantage means men under 50 rarely develop UTIs unless other health factors are present.

“In younger men, UTIs are quite uncommon,” notes Dr. Michael Ingber, a board-certified urologist. “When they do occur, we typically look for underlying anatomical issues or other contributing factors.”

Sexual activity can temporarily change the bacterial environment for both partners. During intimacy, bacteria that naturally live on the skin and in the genital area can be introduced to the urethra.

For most healthy men, the body’s natural defenses handle these bacteria without issue. However, certain circumstances can increase vulnerability to infection.

Men with diabetes, enlarged prostate, kidney stones, or weakened immune systems face higher UTI risk. Age also plays a role—men over 50 experience UTIs more frequently as prostate enlargement becomes more common.

“An enlarged prostate can obstruct urine flow, creating an environment where bacteria can multiply,” Dr. Linehan explains. “This is why we see UTI rates increase in older men.”

Prevention starts with basic hygiene practices that benefit both partners. Urinating shortly after sexual activity helps flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra.

Staying well-hydrated throughout the day supports the body’s natural cleansing mechanisms. Adequate water intake ensures regular urination, which prevents bacteria from establishing infections.

For couples concerned about UTI risk, gentle cleansing before intimacy and avoiding irritating products in the genital area can help maintain healthy bacterial balance.

“Good hygiene doesn’t mean aggressive cleaning with harsh soaps,” Dr. Ingber advises. “Simple washing with water or mild, unscented soap is sufficient and won’t disrupt the natural protective barriers.”

Men experiencing UTI symptoms—including burning during urination, frequent urge to urinate, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, or pelvic discomfort—should seek medical evaluation promptly. Left untreated, UTIs can progress to more serious kidney infections.

The good news is that UTIs respond well to antibiotic treatment when caught early. A simple urine test can confirm the diagnosis and identify the specific bacteria causing the infection.

For men experiencing recurrent UTIs, medical evaluation can identify underlying causes that need addressing. Structural issues, prostate problems, or other health conditions may require specific treatment beyond antibiotics.

Understanding that UTIs aren’t directly transmitted between partners helps couples approach prevention without unnecessary worry. The focus should be on supporting each partner’s urinary health through practical, evidence-based habits.

“The key message is that intimacy doesn’t cause UTIs, but attention to hygiene and hydration supports urinary health for both partners,” Dr. Linehan emphasizes. “These simple practices make a meaningful difference in prevention.”