Urinary tract infections are not sexually transmitted
Q.Last week, I was diagnosed with a bladder infection. It was the worst pain I’ve ever felt. My mom took me to the doctor and all when I started crying because it hurt so bad. They gave me an antibiotic and it felt better in about two days. So, why am I turning to you? Because my stepdad is calling me horrible names and saying I sleep around. I’ve never even done anything sexual. I remember talking about reasons to wait in your class and I decided I’m way too young to do that stuff. My mom won’t stand up to him. He says only girls who have sex get bladder infections. He’s wrong, right? How can I make him believe me? I feel like I’m invisible to him.
14-year-old
Mary Jo’s response: Your stepdad is wrong. A bladder infection is also called a UTI (urinary tract infection). UTIs are common, are not sexually transmitted infections (are not spread during sex) and can make a person feel miserable. I’m glad you told your mom and I’m happy you’re feeling better.
Sadly, many people believe myths about UTIs, simply because they involve body parts we do not always talk about openly. Your body is amazing and works well. No body part is dirty, unless you don’t wash! Let’s talk.
The tube that leads from the bladder (where urine, or “pee,” is stored) is called the urethra. UTIs can include any part of the urinary tract – the body parts involved with removing waste from our bodies in the form of urine. Kidneys, ureters (the tubes from the kidneys to the bladder), bladders and urethras are all part of the urinary tract. Having sex doesn’t cause UTIs. UTIs are caused when outside bacteria enter the urethra or when the bacteria in the bladder increases. The best way to avoid UTIs is to flush out the bladder regularly. Here are some hints:
1. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
2. Use the bathroom often to empty your bladder.
3. After urinating, wipe from front to back to avoid contamination.
4. Women should not douche. Douching means a person washes out the vagina. Unless a health-care provider instructs a person to douche, it shouldn’t be done. Douching disrupts the national balance of good bacteria in the vagina, allowing bad bacteria to grow. The urethra and the vagina are next to one another, so they are easily affected by bacteria in either body part.
5. When you do have sex, urinate afterwards to help flush out bacteria.
I’m pleased you’ve thought about waiting to become sexually involved. Make your own choices. Talk with your mom or another trusted adult. Be smart about your life.
I’m troubled by two things in your message:
1. I’m concerned your mom felt she couldn’t defend you to your stepdad. Is she afraid of him? Are either of you in danger? Call 800-791-4000 if you feel you or your mom are unsafe.
2. You say you feel invisible to your stepdad. No one should feel invisible. You are a person of worth. Talk with your mom, a trusted adult (a family member, teacher, youth group leader, or coach) and share your feelings. It’s important. You’re important.
Please continue to stay in touch.
Have a question? Send it to Dr. Mary Jo Podgurski’s email at podmj@healthyteens.com.