Drink Water, Pee After Sex to Prevent UTI, Experts Advise Women

Health experts have urged Nigerian women to adopt simple lifestyle and hygiene practices to reduce their risk of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), warning that neglecting these habits can lead to serious health complications.

UTI, short for Urinary Tract Infection, occurs when bacteria, most commonly Escherichia coli (E. coli) enter the urinary system, affecting the bladder, urethra, and in severe cases, the kidneys. It remains one of the most common infections in women, with studies showing that at least 50–60% of women experience it at least once in their lifetime.

A 2025 hospital-based study in Akure, Ondo State revealed a UTI prevalence rate of 71.45%, with women aged 20–29 years most affected. Nationwide data estimates an overall prevalence of 39.69%, with females having a 3–17 times higher risk than men.

Symptoms and Risks

Common symptoms include; Burning sensation during urination, Frequent urge to urinate, Cloudy or strong-smelling urine, Pelvic pain, If untreated, UTIs may result in recurrent infections, kidney damage, or even sepsis.

Expert Recommendations

According to a health advisory by MyspNigeria in a post shared on X on Monday, September 8, everyday habits such as not drinking enough water and failing to urinate after sex increase infection risks.

“If you’re the type who doesn’t drink enough water or after sex you don’t pee, these things increase your risk of UTI,” the statgement reads.

MyspNigeria recommend;

• Staying hydrated to flush bacteria from the urinary tract
• Urinating immediately after sexual activity to reduce bacterial spread
• Wearing breathable cotton underwear or sleeping without underwear at night
• Avoiding harsh soaps or douches in the genital area
• Wiping front to back after using the toilet

The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also stresses the importance of early medical care once symptoms appear.

Why Prevention Matters

With Nigeria recording high UTI prevalence rates, experts insist that prevention through proper hydration, post-sex urination, good hygiene, and early treatment is crucial in reducing the impact of UTIs on women’s health.

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