By Remi Newman Imagine you've just come back from the bathroom, and you feel like you have to urinate again, and this happens over and over, and each time, it burns like mad and there's no sense of relief. UTIs are caused by bacteria that have spread from the rectum to the vagina or penis and then to the urethra and bladder. Sexual activity can be a factor in transmission of UTIs.
Vaginal intercourse can drive bacteria present on the vulva into the urethra.
Frequent intercourse increases the chances of this occurring. The irritation of vaginal intercourse when the vagina is not lubricated can be another factor. Unprotected anal play or intercourse provides a higher risk of bringing on infections by transmitting bacteria from the anus. This can generally be prevented by using condoms and washing well after contact with the anal area before touching the vagina. As women get older, the vagina and urethra become less acid, allowing the growth of bacteria, which can lead to a higher incidence of urinary tract infections.