Peeing After Sex: Have you ever heard that it’s necessary to urinate after sex and wondered if this notion is merely a rumour? While there is no clear evidence to back the benefits, most clinicians recommend peeing within 15–30 minutes to lower the chance of a post-sex urinary tract infection (UTI).
Why do people say you should pee after sex?
During sex, bacteria from the genital/anal area can be pushed toward the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body). Peeing after sex helps flush out these bacteria before they can reach the bladder and cause an infection.
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Who is most at risk of getting a UTI?
- Women are at a higher risk, since their urethra is shorter, so bacteria have a shorter distance to travel to the bladder.
- Anyone with frequent UTIs or a history of post-coital UTIs.
- Those with certain medical conditions, like diabetes or a weakened immune system, can also get a UTI.
- Postmenopausal individuals (lower oestrogen can affect the urinary tract)
- Men can also get UTIs, though it’s less common.
Post-sex routine:
When you pee after sex, you wash bacteria away before they settle in. Emptying your bladder before sex can help, especially if you’re UTI-prone. After the intercourse, aim to pee within 15–30 minutes. Gently rinse the genital area with water. Avoid harsh soaps, fragrances, or douching. This can, in fact, disrupt healthy bacteria.
What if you don’t pee after sex?
Not urinating right after sex doesn’t mean you will definitely get a UTI. Many people do not urinate after sex and never experience any issues. However, not doing so does increase the risk of developing a UTI, especially for those who are prone to infections.
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Many people also assume that urinating after sex can prevent pregnancy. However, peeing cannot help with contraception. Use condoms and other appropriate birth control methods to prevent pregnancy. Urinating also doesn’t help with sexually transmitted diseases.
Peeing after sex is a simple, low-effort habit that may reduce post-sex UTI risk, particularly for women. Pair it with hygiene, condoms, adequate lubrication, and (if needed) clinician-guided prevention.
