Sex experts name the positions that are most likely to cause urinary tract infections.

According to The Sun: Sometimes the memory of a passionate sex session is overshadowed by a woman's greatest enemy - a urinary tract infection (UTI).

UTIs can happen to anyone, regardless of age or gender, but they are known to strike women after a night between the sheets.

Some women suffer from UTIs triggered by sex.

This is because bacteria living in the genital area can enter the urethra during intercourse - which has a small opening close to the vagina.

Tips to avoid UTIs after sex

The bacteria travel to the bladder and cause an infection, leading to symptoms such as pain during urination and a constant 'urge to go' feeling.

There are some tips women can follow to try to avoid a UTI after sex.

• Going to the toilet right after intercourse is generally recommended to flush out any bacteria that may linger.

But experts say many women may not realize that their favorite sex position could be the problem.

Sex expert Ruby Rare said: 'The general rule is that positions with more friction between the bodies have a higher likelihood of UTIs. While the act of rubbing against your partner can be incredibly pleasurable, it's the friction motion that can spread bacteria more easily. Sex should be exciting and enjoyable. Even if these positions and activities may increase the risk of a UTI, you shouldn't give them up unless your doctor advises otherwise.'

The worst sex positions for UTIs

Missionary

The ever-reliable missionary position brings the woman's urethra and the man's penis close together. This increases the risk of bacteria reaching the urethra, bladder, or kidneys, thus risking an infection. Try to place your legs over your partner's shoulders to reduce the risk.

Cowgirl

When a woman is sitting on a man, the urethra is brought into very close proximity to the penis. Here, the friction is extremely high, making the spread of bacteria significantly easier.

Fingers

“A common misconception is that UTIs only occur from penetration (penis in vagina),” Ruby said. “Fingers can also easily transfer bacteria, especially considering how many germs your hands touch daily. Before things get hot and heavy, remember to wash your hands to limit the risk.'

The best sex position to avoid UTIs

Doggy Style

Given the location of the urethra, doggy style is one of the positions least likely to cause a UTI. Both the penis and the friction move further away from the urethra.

A warning about...

Sex toys

Dr. Vallance-Owen said that not only sex with someone else can trigger a UTI. “While UTIs can occur after sex, it's also possible for them to arise after masturbation or the use of sex toys, as they can help push bacteria towards the urethra. Your chances of your sex toys causing a UTI are low if they are properly cleaned after each use. Avoid porous toys made from materials like PVC, as they can harbor bacteria even after cleaning. It’s also worth noting that excessive cleaning can cause issues, as harsh soaps and chemicals can kill the good bacteria in the vagina, disrupting the balance between good and bad bacteria.'

Condoms

Another point is to check your condoms. In some cases, unfortunate and spermicide-treated condoms can increase your risk of getting a UTI. Research suggests that spermicides can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the vagina and urinary tract. If something disrupts your vaginal flora and causes an unhealthy ratio of good to bad bacteria, you could be more susceptible to a UTI.

The symptoms of a UTI

• More frequent and urgent need to urinate than usual
• Burning sensation or discomfort when urinating
• Pain in the abdomen, accompanied by a feverish and tired feeling
• Waking up at night to urinate
• Stronger smelling urine or a color change that appears darker or cloudy like apple juice
• Vaginal irritation or discharge
• Fatigue

After a hot and passionate intimate encounter, an uncomfortable situation in the form of a urinary tract infection can arise for a woman. This can be caused by bacteria entering the bladder during intercourse, especially in certain positions. Experts emphasize the importance of going to the toilet immediately after sex to prevent infection. Additionally, some positions that increase the risk of such problems should be avoided.