"Since my first time having sex, already 13 years ago, I’ve almost never had sex without getting a bladder infection or UTI. It's terrible because I start to get scared of having sex more than enjoying it, as I always think of the pain that will follow, and the antibiotics, and the shame. I’ve tried so many things, from peeing right after sex to drinking a lot of water, but nothing has worked... Help!
P.S: does birth control have something to do with it? Because I started taking it before I started having sex and just stopped taking it 6 weeks ago hoping it might change something about my situation."
Hi plagued with bladder infections,
It sounds like you’ve taken all the right preliminary steps, like peeing right after sex and drinking lots of water. Some women are very sensitive to the introduction of foreign bacteria from a partner, and recurrent bladder infections are often a sign that your pH has become unbalanced. The first thing I would suggest trying is making sure both you and your partner shower right before sex. This can be part of your foreplay and increase intimacy. Another option you have is to talk to your doctor about getting a prescription for a boric acid suppositories. This is a easy, natural way to balance your pH. You would insert the suppository at night before you go to bed and in the morning you should feel a lot better. Birth control shouldn’t have an impact on your pH, though it can have other unintended consequences that make your body feel less than optimal. Going off it might end up improving your overall health as long as you have an alternative birth control method in place. Let me know how it goes.
About Dr. Christina Stein
Christina is a Sex Therapist and Relationship Expert who specializes in reinvigorating relationships and empowering women. She has a private practice in Santa Monica, California where she works with individuals and couples to reclaim desire and connection with themselves and their partner. She is passionate about teaching people how to take the monotony out of monogamy.
In this day in age woman are expected to excel both personally and professionally, as both mothers and wives, and Christina is aware of how challenging that is for many women. In addition to personal and professional development and success, women are constantly struggling to stay connected to their sexuality and maintain a passionate relationship with their partners.
With her enthusiasm for facilitating personal growth and awareness, Christina focuses on helping individuals and couples discover their strengths and accomplish their goals, leading to a more inspiring life. Christina helps women awaken their desire, giving them greater self-confidence and empowering them as women. She also works with couples to create greater intimacy and teaches them how to light a spark that creates anticipation and excitement in their relationships.
Christina is a licensed marriage and family therapist, holds a masters in clinical psychology, and a Ph.D. in human sexuality.