If you get UTIs often, you might have wondered if they’re contagious.
We had an expert break down how they are developed.
Well, have no fear.

Youre not the only one.
Many people think it’s possible for you to catch a UTI, but they arent sexually transmitted infections.
They are bacterial infections in the urethra.

urology and women’s health specialist atAeroflow Urology
While bacteria that cause UTIs can travel from one person to another, the condition itself is not contagious.
E. coliis the most common UTI-causing bacteria, according to theMayo Clinic.
It naturally hangs out in your intestines and around the anus, Fosnight says.

Wiping improperly can transferE.
coliinto the urethral opening and cause UTIsand so can sexual activity.
Changing the undergarments and reducing exposure to moist environments is an excellent way to prevent that.

Below, Fosnight lays out some reasons so that you might make adjustments to prevent future contraction.
For instance, anal stimulation should happen after any activity involving the urethra.
They should also be cleaned andsanitized between uses and partners, Fosnight says.

urology and women’s health specialist atAeroflow Urology
She also says that people with vaginas should pee after sex to flush bacteria out of the urethra.
Its Amazing How Its All Connected.
They should all be cleaned, whether a penis, dildo, hand, or vibrator.

Yourmicrobiome often needs time to restoregood bacteria after being disrupted from sex.
These small tears in the skin can harbor bacteria and make it harder for the body to eradicate them.
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