Lightly adapted from our Medium post by Kate Bader
You’ve heard it before, “You should always pee after sex.” But, is it true? Is it just a myth? Or, are there legitimate reasons for getting out of bed to pee after sex?
The consensus is: Yes. You should pee before AND after sex.
Why?
It may help prevent a UTI (Urinary Tract Infection; a painful infection of the urethra, bladder, kidney, or ureters) from developing. Peeing before and after sex is thought to flush bacteria that may have otherwise traveled through the urethra (the tiny hole in your body that pee comes out of) and started an infection. It is helpful to pee before sex, because it helps wash away bacteria and debris that could get pushed into the urethra from the physical motions of sex. So peeing after sex is beneficial because new bacteria introduced to the genitals during sex get flushed.
What If I Can’t Pee?
Do your best to relax your pelvic floor, but don’t push to make yourself urinate if nothing comes out. But, keep in mind that may mean you’re not drinking enough water throughout the day, especially after a somewhat athletic activity like sex. So, take note of your water consumption to ensure you’re hydrated and ask your doctor how much water you should be drinking daily (hydration is also key for sex as it supports the body’s ability to release natural lubricating fluids.)
What If Peeing Burns?
You may already have a UTI or another infection. You should see your primary care provider as soon as you can. A UTI that is left untreated can turn into a kidney infection.
Myths Regarding Peeing After Sex
Peeing after sex does not get rid of sperm or reduce the risk of pregnancy. Peeing after sex does not reduce the risk of developing an STI.
People with vaginas are 30x more likely to develop a UTI than people with penises. But people with penises can still get a UTI from sex. So everyone should consider urinating after sex to reduce the risk.
And yes, you should also pee after masturbating. Sex with yourself is still sex, and it manipulates bacteria present on your genitals, potentially causing a UTI.
Sources:
- Self: https://www.self.com/story/is-it-actually-that-important-to-pee-after-sex
- Planned Parenthood: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/teens/ask-experts/is-it-true-that-if-you-dont-pee-after-sex-youll-get-a-uti-and-that-a-uti-can-turn-into-chlamydia
- NCBI: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470195/
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