Sexual activity is often discussed in terms of pleasure, intimacy, emotional bonding, or reproduction, but its broader physiological effects are rarely explored in depth. One of the most overlooked systems influenced by sexual activity is the urinary system, which sits in close anatomical proximity to the reproductive organs and plays a crucial role in maintaining internal balance. During intercourse, the body undergoes a series of physical changes: increased blood flow, muscle engagement, friction, warmth, and moisture.
These conditions, while natural and often pleasurable, also create an environment where microorganisms can move more freely. Bacteria that normally reside harmlessly on the skin or in nearby regions can be transferred toward the urethral opening through physical contact. In women, this risk is particularly significant because the urethra is short—only a few centimeters long—and located close to both the vaginal and anal openings. This anatomical reality means that even routine sexual activity can inadvertently introduce bacteria into the urinary tract. In men, the urethra is longer, which provides a degree of protection, but it does not make men immune to urinary complications. Prolonged intercourse, multiple encounters without sufficient recovery time, dehydration, or poor hygiene can still allow bacteria to travel upward.