Q:

I just found out that I have a UTI. I briefly had unprotected sex with my partner. Is he at risk for acquiring it? I am starting the medication today to get it out of my system. What should I do?

 

A:

A urinary tract infection is caused by bacteria originally from the intestine, and pushed into the urethra opening during intercourse, where the bacteria happily proliferate in the culture media of urine.  It is not a sexually transmitted infection although is often caused by the mechanics of intercourse.

Chlamydia and gonorrhea infections of the urethral opening can mimic urinary tract symptoms of uncomfortable frequent urination and burning.  These are sexually transmitted infections and won't respond to the usual antibiotics given for bladder and kidney infections.

Your partner is not at risk of getting a UTI from you, but if you happen to have chlamydia or gonorrhea (which is a different test), then yes, your partner is at risk.  We recommend being symptom free before you have intercourse again.

~The Doc