• burning pain during urination
  
• the urge to urinate when the bladder is nearly empty
  
• a frequent urge to urinate, especially at night
  
• involuntary loss of urine
  
• lower abdominal pain or back pain
  
• blood and pus in urine
  
• fever

UTIs are common in women and men who are sexually active. They affect women more often than men because a woman's urethra is shorter than a man's and bacteria may get to the bladder more easily. A woman's urethra is also closer to the anus than a man's.

How UTIs are spread: Anything — from sex play to toilet water splashing — that brings particles of fecal material into contact with the vagina and urethra can cause UTIs. Unprotected anal intercourse is a very high-risk behavior for urinary tract infection. Some women who use the diaphragm or shield are susceptible to frequent UTIs.

Diagnosis: Consult your clinician to confirm diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment

• antibiotics
  
• Pyridium may relieve symptoms but will not cure the infection.

Protection: to prevent urinary tract infections or discourage them from returning

• Drink when you are thirsty.
  
• Urinate as soon as you feel the urge.
  
• Drink unsweetened cranberry juice.
  
• Urinate immediately before and after intercourse.
  
• Avoid using any sexual position that seems to trigger UTIs.
  
• Keep the pubic area clean and dry.
  
• Use latex or female condoms during vaginal or anal intercourse.
  
• Use lubricants during vaginal intercourse — especially if the vagina is dry.

Some women who are susceptible to frequent UTIs take antibiotics to prevent infections when they have sexual intercourse.