Can having a UTI affect your periods? Let’s find out

Most women have had a urinary tract infection or UTI at some point in their lives. The statistics are proof: one in two women have had a UTI. You know how painful it can get, right? For the unversed, UTI happens when bacteria enters the urinary tract. In most cases, it is E.coli which travels from the anus and vaginal area into the urinary tract. Ladies, sex is almost always the number one cause. 

But did you know UTIs most commonly happen around your period? No kidding at all! We don’t want to think the universe is being mean to us women, because well, dealing with UTI and periods at the same time is a test of endurance, or what we’d like to believe. 

Take your time to process this harsh fact; until then, let’s tell you why UTIs are common during your periods. 

How are UTIs and periods linked?

We’ve already established this before that UTIs are generally linked with sexual activity. The reason this happens around your period is because oestrogen is anti-inflammatory, and this hormone is at its lowest when you bleed, so you can be more susceptible to infections at this point. 

Although those who are prone to UTI do everything from peeing after sex to wiping front to back, and all that stuff, but remember to do it even during your period. We understand juggling both at the same time might be hard, but ladies, wouldn’t you want to be UTI-free during your period? We hear a big YES! 

What are some of the common symptoms of UTI?

Let’s take you through some of the most common symptoms of UTI: 

• burning sensation while urinating
• frequent urination
• pain in the lower abdomen
• cloudy urine
• sudden urge to urinate
• loss of bladder control
• strong urine odour
• vaginal irritation

Can a UTI affect your periods?

The answer is NO. UTI doesn’t affect your period in any way, or unlike popular perception, it doesn’t delay your periods. Of course, stress can have an impact on your menstrual cycle. So, if you are stressed about getting UTI, then it can lead to late or missed periods. 

In case UTI happens on your period, make sure to be more mindful of your personal hygiene. Change the sanitary napkin often and keep the vagina clean. Use good quality sanitary napkins, and try as much as possible to avoid tampons. 

Also, some women prefer to have sex during their period, but we suggest to steer clear, especially if you are prone to UTIs.

Some tips to avoid UTIs

Here are some things to keep in mind:

• always wipe from front to back after urinating and bowel movement,
• pee after intercourse,
• wash the genitals after sex to clear out bacteria,
• avoid holding urine for long periods of time,
• drink lots of water,
• keep the genitals clean and dry,
• during periods change your sanitary napkin or tampon frequently and
• drinking unsweetened cranberry juice also helps prevent UTIs.