UTIs are caused by bacteria. Usually by the bacteria that are found in the intestines and sometimes on the skin around the rectal and vaginal areas. Yes, that means from fecal contamination. Some females get urinary tract infections more frequently, this may be because of the differences in the shape and length of the urethra in different people. A female with a shorter urethra may get more UTIs.
Males generally get fewer UTIs than females because they have longer urethras.
There are several ways bacteria can get into the urethra. During sexual intercourse, the bacteria in the vaginal area may be pushed into the urethra, which causes irritation in the bladder. In fact, any time the vaginal area is rubbed, bacteria can be pushed into the urethra. There are a number of symptoms associated with UTIs. Bladder infections are characterized by an urgent desire to empty the bladder.