When a woman becomes sexually active, she needs to implement new practices to ensure she keeps her body healthy. Of course, most women learn about preventing STDs and pregnancy. However, many women may not realize that having sex can increase their likelihood of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI). Fortunately, there are steps you can take before and after sex to decrease this risk.

How UTIs and Sex Are Related

UTIs are caused by bacteria that attach to the walls of the bladder or urethra and don’t get flushed out before causing infection. All humans have both beneficial and harmful bacteria inside and outside of the body. In most cases, harmful bacteria are eliminated through waste like urine and feces or other bodily fluids like vaginal secretions. In other cases, beneficial bacteria fight off harmful bacteria, rendering them harmless.

Sometimes, however, the bacteria don’t get flushed out, or the beneficial bacteria aren’t strong enough to fight off the harmful bacteria—that’s how infections develop. In the case of UTIs and sexual activity, the friction and movement involved can push bacteria further into the urinary tract. If the bacteria aren’t flushed out afterward, infection will set in. For this reason, especially if you’re prone to UTIs, it’s important to take necessary preventative steps.

Steps to Take When You Have a UTI

If you already have a UTI or suspect you might, make sure to consult with your physician or OB/GYN. They’ll run a simple test to determine whether you have a UTI and will most likely prescribe antibiotics. Don’t assume that a UTI will resolve on its own—in many cases, UTIs can worsen and move from the urethra and bladder into the kidneys, causing serious problems. They can even lead to sepsis, which can be life-threatening.

When it comes to sex, it’s usually best to avoid vaginal penetration if you have a UTI, as it can worsen the situation. Essentially, you’ll be adding insult to injury, potentially introducing more bacteria to an already compromised system. The reality is that you likely won’t want to have sex if you have a UTI anyway—it can be extremely painful. However, it’s important to dispel the myth that you can transmit a UTI during sex. You cannot. UTIs are not contagious.

How to Prevent a UTI Before Sex

If you’re concerned about getting a UTI because of sexual activity, there are several preventative steps you can take:

Consider supplements. If you’re prone to UTIs, invest in a high-quality UTI supplement. These typically contain PACs (proanthocyanidins), which are flavonoid compounds in cranberries that have been shown to help prevent UTIs.

Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids to ensure you’re flushing out your urinary tract regularly.

Practice good hygiene. Even if you’re not prone to UTIs, good hygiene is always important. Bacteria can be transferred from parts of your body to your urinary tract, as well as from your partner’s body. Clean your genitals before sex to minimize the transfer of harmful bacteria.

Urinate before sex. This helps empty your bladder and can aid in the flushing process.

How to Prevent a UTI After Sex

After sex, you may have bacteria in your urinary tract from sexual activity alone, even if you’ve cleaned your genitals beforehand. This is why urinating immediately after sex is strongly recommended—it helps your body eliminate any foreign bacteria that may have been introduced.

You can also shower after sex to ensure that no bacteria lingering in or around your vaginal area migrate into your urinary tract. These may seem like thorough measures, but if UTIs are common for you, prevention is worth the effort.

Pay attention to any signs that you may be developing a UTI so you can seek treatment right away. Early intervention can include drinking plenty of water and eating foods that support urinary tract health, like cucumbers and cranberries. Regular cardio exercise, such as running or swimming, also helps move fluids through your body.

Self-Care Is a Critical Part of Being Sexually Active

Many young women are taught the basics of sexual activity without fully understanding how sex can affect the female body. A healthy sex life should involve protection against STDs and unwanted pregnancies, but it should also center around a positive approach to self-care. Female pleasure and feminine health are interconnected because sex is often a penetrative act for women.

This means that sexually active women should treat their bodies with care at all ages. Eat foods that keep your gut bacteria healthy, such as yogurt, fresh fruits and vegetables, and nuts and seeds. Drink plenty of water, get adequate sleep, and manage stress levels. Take supplements that help your body stay strong. These self-care practices can help prevent UTIs and other illnesses, and they may even enhance your sex life as well.