Dear Kingoo,

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are not always caused by having sex, but they can result from sex play and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Although partners can't "catch" a UTI from one another, they can catch the STIs — gonorrhea or chlamydia — that may have caused the UTI.

UTIs are caused by bacteria that have spread from the rectum to the vagina or penis and then to the urethra and bladder. Anything that brings particles of fecal material into contact with the vagina and urethra — from sex play, to careless wiping after a bowel movement, to toilet water splashing — can cause UTIs. Unprotected anal intercourse, for example, is a very high-risk behavior for urinary tract infection. And, of course, UTIs may also be caused by STIs.

UTIs affect women more often than men because a woman's urethra is shorter than a man's and bacteria may get to the bladder more easily. A woman's urethra is also closer to the anus than a man's.

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.