Dear babiluv,

Urinary tract infections are caused by bacteria that have spread from the rectum to the vagina or penis and then to the urethra and bladder.

Common symptoms include:

• burning pain during urination
• the urge to urinate when the bladder is nearly empty
• a frequent urge to urinate, especially at night
• involuntary loss of urine
• lower abdominal pain
• blood and pus in urine
• fever

These symptoms are very similar to those caused by sexually transmitted infections, so it is important to have a health care professional make an accurate diagnosis.

Urinary tract infections are very common in women and men who are sexually active. Urinary tract infections can be spread by any kind of sex play that brings fecal material into contact with the vagina and urethra.

If you are worried you may have an infection, you need to visit a clinician. To make a confidential appointment at your nearest Planned Parenthood, call 1-800-230-PLAN or use our Clinic Connections button.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.