Dear boricua_ma,

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common in women and men who are sexually active. 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 during the night
• involuntary loss of urine
• lower abdominal or back pain
• blood or pus in the urine
• fever

These symptoms are very similar to those caused by sexually transmitted infections, so it's important to have a health care professional make an accurate diagnosis. Sexually transmitted infections can be very dangerous and may lead to infertility and serious illness.

To prevent urinary tract infections or discourage them from returning:

• Drink when you are thirsty.
• Urinate as soon as you feel the urge.
• Drink unsweetened cranberry juice.
• Urinate immediately before and after intercourse.
• Avoid using any sexual position that seems to trigger UTIs.
• Keep the pubic area clean and dry.
• Use condoms or vaginal pouches during vaginal or anal intercourse.

To reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infection, use a condom everytime you have vaginal or anal intercourse. If you are worried you may have an infection, you need to visit a clinician.

To make a confidential appointment at you're nearest Planned Parenthood, call 1-800-230-PLAN.

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.