Yes, you can get a urinary tract infection (UTI) from oral sex if bacteria from the mouth or anal region enter the urinary tract and cause an infection.
Key Takeaways:
- Oral sex can introduce bacteria, such as E. coli, to the urinary tract, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections.
- “Any flavored or edible personal lubricants must be made from safe ingredients to prevent genital irritation that can promote bacterial growth,” Dr. Susan Milstein, a member of our medical review board, noted.
- Dental dams or condoms can help to prevent UTI-causing bacteria from reaching the recipient’s urethra during oral sex.
- “A UTI is about bacteria infecting the urethra. It doesn’t mean that you or your partner is ‘dirty’ or unclean,” Dr. Milstein added. Maintaining good hygiene, including cleaning your genitals and urinating after sex, is also crucial for preventing UTIs after oral sex.
- Prompt testing and treatment are available if you experience symptoms of UTI after oral sex.
We’ll explain how UTIs can develop from oral sex and offer tips for prevention and testing.
How Oral Sex Can Cause A UTI
Oral sex can transfer UTI-causing bacteria to the receiving partner’s urinary tract because a person’s mouth can carry E. coli (the bacteria responsible for more than 80% of UTIs).
Even if the giver’s mouth isn’t harboring E. coli, their lips or tongue can come into contact with bacteria from the recipient’s anal area, transferring it to the recipient’s urethra.
“Any flavored or edible personal lubricants (if used during sex) must be made from safe ingredients to prevent genital irritation that can promote bacterial growth,” Dr. Susan Milstein, a member of our medical review board, noted.
“A flavored lube can make oral sex more enjoyable but it can also increase your chance of getting a UTI,” she added. “It’s important that you check the ingredients.”
Avoiding UTIs From Oral Sex
Preventing UTIs requires a mix of good hygiene and smart habits.
- Washing the recipient’s genital area before and after sex reduces the chance of new bacteria entering the giver’s mouth.
- A dental dam or condom on the recipient can help to prevent UTI-causing bacteria from reaching their genital area or urethra.
- Urinating afterward helps flush out any bacteria that may have been introduced during the act.
- If you’re using flavored or edible personal lubricants, make sure they’re made from safe and gentle ingredients that won’t irritate the genital area.
- Drinking plenty of water helps to keep the urinary system flushed out and reduces the risk of bacterial growth.
Testing For UTI After Oral Sex
If you suspect a urinary tract infection after oral sex, seek testing and treatment promptly.
Easy at-home UTI testing is just a click away:
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MyUTI At-Home Testing
Pros:
- PCR Urine Test (12 Pathogens)
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Note:
Not available in New York, Alaska, Hawaii, and internationally.
How It Works
If your results are positive, early diagnosis and treatment prevent the infection from worsening.
Closing Thoughts
Staying informed and taking preventive steps are key to enjoying a healthy and safe sex life.
If symptoms of a UTI arise after oral sex, prompt testing that can identify multiple symptom causing bacteria and appropriate treatment options are essential to maintain your health and well-being.
