When Tanya, a 30-year-old writer from Delhi, got married, her mother shared an important sexual wellness tip: Always remember to pee after sex. “This will keep most infections away,” he told her.

Sexual health is an essential part of overall well-being, and it comes with the responsibility of maintaining good hygiene to prevent infections. One of the simplest (and most popular) of the many tips often suggested is to urinate after intercourse. It is believed that doing so is not only a good hygiene practice, but also keeps issues like UTI (urinary tract infection) and other infections at bay – especially in women.

UTIs are a common concern for sexually active women. Why? Well, Dr. Vaishali Joshi, senior obstetrician and gynecologist at Kokilaben Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, explains, “Women are more prone to UTI than men due to the close proximity of their urinary and genital systems.”

“After the first intercourse, some women may develop UTI. This is not uncommon and may be caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract during sexual activity. Common symptoms include burning sensation during urination, frequent urination or pain in the lower abdomen,” says Dr. Joshi.

But how important is this habit of urinating after intercourse and does it really help prevent infections? We asked the experts.

Does it matter to pee after sex?

Dr Geeta Shroff, Director of Nubella Center for Women’s Health, emphasizes that it is important to urinate after intercourse.

“Using after sex can help prevent urinary tract infections or even other infections, especially in women. During intercourse, bacteria from the genital or anal area can find their way into the urethra. “Urinating after sex ensures that these bacteria are flushed out before they can cause infection,” says Dr. Shroff.

Dr. Kanika Jain, Vice President of the Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Delhi (AOGD), Professor and Senior Consultant, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, further explains, “Sexual activity can introduce bacteria like Escherichia coli (E. coli). By urinating, these are flushed out before they reach the bladder, which reduces the risk of infection.”

It is recommended to urinate within 15-30 minutes of intercourse to flush out bacteria.

“The first step to help ward off infection is to drink plenty of water. If symptoms persist, antibiotics may be needed to resolve them. Prompt treatment is essential, as untreated UTIs can worsen, but they are generally not serious if treated timely,” says Dr Joshi.

However, experts also say that urinating after sex does not ensure 100 percent protection, but definitely reduces the chances of getting a UTI. Although this is not a surefire method, it is still an effective and simple precautionary measure for urinary health.

Hydration also plays an important role here. “Drink enough water so you can urinate after sex,” says Dr. Shroff.

It’s important to note that while urinating after intercourse may help prevent urinary infections, it does not play a role in preventing STIs or vaginal infections.

“Urinating specifically helps prevent UTIs but has no significant effect on sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or vaginal infections,” says Dr. Jain.

Good hygiene tips after sex

Practicing good hygiene after sex can reduce the risk of UTI and other infections to a great extent. It is important to use protection, avoid scratching, and maintain overall genital and perineal hygiene.

You may feel tired or don’t want to get out of bed right away, but getting up to pee, changing clothes, and gently cleaning your genitals can go a long way in keeping infections at bay.

Here are some more expert-recommended tips:

• gentle cleaning: Dr. Shroff recommends washing the genital area with warm water. Avoid harsh or scented soaps, which can disrupt the natural pH balance.
• change clothes: Avoid wearing tight clothes or non-breathable clothes after sex. Tight or damp clothing can promote the growth of bacteria. Choose loose-fitting, breathable cotton underwear to keep the area dry and fresh.
• wash your hands: Dr Joshi emphasizes the importance of clean hands before and after intercourse to prevent the transfer of germs.
• stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water ensures regular urination, which naturally flushes out bacteria from the urinary tract.
• practice safe sex: Using condoms helps prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• keep track of symptoms: If you notice symptoms of irritation, pain, or unusual discharge, see a doctor. “Ignoring symptoms can worsen the infection, requiring more intensive treatment,” warns Dr. Joshi.
• wear breathable underwear: Choose cotton clothing to prevent moisture from building up, which can promote bacterial growth.
• clean sex toys: Sex toy culture is on the rise in India, these products are just a blink of an eye. While they are sure to make things exciting for you in the bedroom, it is essential to clean them properly to keep infections away. Doctors suggest washing toys with warm water and appropriate cleanser after use to prevent the transfer of bacteria.

when to see a doctor

Recurrent UTIs – defined as more than two to three infections within six months – may require specialist intervention.

In case of recurrent UTIs, “routine testing includes microscopic examination of the urine and urine culture and sensitivity. This will detect the type of bacteria causing the UTI and effective antibiotics to clear the infection. UTI Sonography of the kidneys and bladder may be required to see the after-effects,” shares Dr Joshi.

Ultimately…

While urinating after sex is no guarantee against UTIs or other infections, it is a simple and highly recommended practice to reduce the risk. With good hygiene habits and adequate hydration, it supports overall sexual and urinary health. As Dr. Shroff says, “It’s a small habit, but it can make a big difference in your health and comfort.”

Symptoms indicative of infection, such as a burning sensation when urinating or frequent urination or pain in the lower abdomen, are the first thing to do. Drink plenty of water, which helps flush out the infection. If it doesn’t heal, you may need antibiotics to clear it up later. It is not advisable to ignore the infection, and it is not a serious matter if treated timely.