Does peeing after sex really prevent STIs?

When we talk about sexual health, it can be difficult to separate myths from facts. Some pieces of common advice remain genuinely helpful over the years. Others, less so.

One common piece of advice that often circulates is the idea that peeing after sex can help prevent STIs. But how much truth is there to this claim? Can these pesky infections be purged by peeing?

Keep reading to find out!

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How do you get STIs?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are primarily spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. This means that engaging in unprotected sex with an infected partner can significantly increase your risk of contracting an STI.

All sorts of STIs can be transmitted this way, including:

However, sexual intercourse isn’t the only way STIs can be transmitted. For instance, sharing sex toys without proper cleaning can also spread these infections. It’s crucial to clean sex toys between uses or use condoms on them to reduce the risk of transmission.

Additionally, some STIs can be passed through non-sexual means. For example, bloodborne infections like HIV and Hepatitis B and C can be transmitted by sharing needles or through blood transfusions.

Even close skin-to-skin contact can spread infections like HPV and herpes. Understanding these various transmission methods is essential for taking comprehensive precautions to protect your sexual health.

Does peeing after sex help prevent STIs?

The idea that peeing after sex can prevent STIs is a common belief, but it’s important to understand the facts.

While urinating after sex can help flush out bacteria from the urethra, it doesn’t have the same effect on STIs. STIs are caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites that are transmitted through sexual contact, and peeing doesn’t eliminate these pathogens from the body.

STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and herpes are transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids. Once these pathogens enter the body, they can infect the genital area, mouth, or throat, depending on the type of sexual activity involved. Therefore, while maintaining good hygiene practices, including urinating after sex, is beneficial for overall health, it isn’t a reliable method for preventing STIs.

To effectively reduce the risk of STIs, it’s crucial to use barrier methods such as condoms and dental dams during sexual activity. Regular STI screenings and open communication with sexual partners about sexual health are also essential steps in protecting yourself and others.

Understanding the limitations of certain practices, like peeing after sex, helps in making informed decisions about sexual health.

Does peeing after sex help at all?

While peeing after sex doesn’t prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), it does offer some benefits, particularly in reducing the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs).

When you urinate after sex, you help flush out bacteria that may have entered the urethra during intercourse. This can be particularly beneficial for women, as their urethras are shorter and closer to the anus, making it easier for bacteria to travel to the bladder.

However, it’s important to note that while peeing after sex can help reduce the risk of UTIs, it’s not a foolproof method. Some people may still experience UTIs despite this practice, and other preventive measures, such as staying hydrated and maintaining good genital hygiene, are also important.

For men, the benefits of peeing after sex are less pronounced due to the longer urethra, which makes it harder for bacteria to reach the bladder. Nonetheless, adopting this habit as part of a broader approach to maintaining urinary health doesn’t hurt.

Final thoughts

While peeing after sex can help reduce the risk of UTIs, it doesn’t prevent STIs. Understanding the different ways STIs are transmitted and taking appropriate preventive measures, such as using condoms and getting regular screenings, is essential for maintaining your sexual health.

If you have any concerns about STIs or want to ensure your sexual health is in check, you should consider getting tested. Better2Know offers a range of STI testing services that are confidential, quick, and reliable. Whether you prefer home testing kits or visiting one of our clinics, we have options to suit your needs.

Don’t leave your sexual health to chance. Visit Better2Know today to book your STI test and take control of your health. Your peace of mind is just a test away.