Can You Get a UTI from Not Showering?

Poor hygiene is not considered a direct cause of UTIs, and it is unclear whether showering less often meaningfully changes UTI risk. UTIs occur when bacteria, typically E. coli from the intestinal tract, travel up the urethra to the bladder. Most UTIs occur when bacteria from the intestinal tract enter the urethra, but there is limited evidence that skipping showers makes this more likely. Women are particularly susceptible due to their shorter urethra and proximity of the urethral opening to the anus. E. coli causes most uncomplicated bladder infections, although the responsible organisms vary by the type of UTI and the patient's circumstances. Skipping showers does not necessarily lead to a UTI. Gentle external washing is reasonable for general hygiene, but frequent or internal genital cleansing has not been shown to prevent UTIs and may cause irritation. Drinking enough fluid may help some people, while evidence that urinating after sex prevents UTIs is limited.