Bacteria from the vagina and anus can easily be carried into the urethra and even the bladder during sexual intercourse. Sexual intercourse may also cause perineal congestion and local swelling, making it more susceptible to infection. Generally speaking, the urine in a healthy bladder is sterile, but bacteria in the anal area, especially E. coli, can easily travel up the urethra to the bladder. This causes urinary tract infections, and sexual intercourse is one of the common causes of urinary tract infections in women. Usually, newlyweds during the honeymoon period have frequent sex, which can easily cause urinary tract infections in women, so this situation is also known as “honeymoon cystitis” in medical terms. Women who have frequent sex are at high risk for urinary tract infections A study of unmarried female college students in the United States found that women who had frequent sex were more than nine times more likely to have urinary tract infections than those who did not have sex. Many women reject intimacy with their significant others because of the urinary tract discomfort that follows sex, so men who are considerate of their significant others should pay more attention to women’s urinary tract health. Symptoms of infection Common symptoms of urinary tract infection include frequent urination, burning sensation when relieving urine, and discomfort in the lower abdomen. If the infection partially affects the kidneys, fever, abdominal pain, or even sepsis may result, requiring more aggressive diagnosis and treatment. The right attitude to seek medical attention After discovering the above-mentioned symptoms, do not go to the pharmacy and buy drugs at will. The urinary tract infection can be cured soon after regular treatment, but if you are afraid of the disease or the trouble and use drugs indiscriminately, it may make the condition worse. The way to prevent and control urinary tract infections caused by sexual intercourse Women in order to prevent infection, in addition to strengthening personal hygiene, both sides should shower before sex and can drink about 250ml-300ml of fluid. After sex, it is best to drink a glass or two of water and take a good bathroom break to flush out any bacteria that may be present in the bladder and wash the pubic area to reduce the chance of infection. When washing, use bath soap or body wash to gently wash away the secretions from both sides. Don’t over-wash, as over-cleaning the vagina can damage the vaginal pH and mucous membrane, which may not be beneficial. If infection often occurs after sexual intercourse, you should consult your physician for appropriate advice. Although the symptoms will improve within a day or two after taking the medication, it is important to follow the doctor’s instructions and take the medication regularly until it is finished so that the germs are not completely killed and the infection is not repeated.