Can You Have Sex with a UTI?
Medically reviewed by Linda Girgis | MD, Girgis Family Medicine on August 21st, 2026.
Yes, you can have sex with a UTI, but it's generally not recommended. Sexual activity can worsen UTI symptoms like burning, pain, and urgency by introducing additional bacteria and causing mechanical irritation to already inflamed tissues. Studies show that sexual intercourse increases UTI recurrence rates by up to 60% in sexually active women. The friction and pressure during sex can push bacteria deeper into the urinary tract and delay healing. Most healthcare providers recommend waiting until symptoms completely resolve and you've completed antibiotic treatment, typically 3-7 days after starting medication.
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