Unfortunately, a urinary tract infection can be easy to get. Bacteria that live in adjacent areas such as the vagina and anal areas may enter the urethra, travel to the bladder, and cause an infection in the urinary tract. UTIs can be caused by a number of different bacteria, including chlamydia, gonorrhea and other organisms. Although UTIs are not spread from one person to another like STDs, sexual intercourse can lead to or exacerbate UTIs. But you don’t have to have sex to get a UTI, as anything that makes bacteria come into contact with your urethra can cause a UTI. The risk of getting a urinary tract infection is higher if you: • have had one before • have diabetes • are obese • use spermicidesor a diaphragm • have kidney stones or other urinary tract obstructions