the difference between UTIs and STIs

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You need to understand the difference between UTIs and STIs so that you know when it’s time to see a doctor. It’s easy to see why people get confused when it comes to urinary tract infections (UTI) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). After all, both involve genitals and they can share some similar symptoms.

Let’s learn about UTIs and STIs, the signs and symptoms you should look out for, and what you can do to prevent them.

What’s a UTI?

Your urinary tract is made up of the tube you pee from (urethra), your bladder, the tubes that connect your bladder to your kidneys (ureters), and your kidneys. A UTI is an infection in any part of this system.¹

Affecting more than 150 million people every year, most UTIs are caused by bacteria from the skin around your genitals or anus entering your urinary tract.^{1 2} It’s possible to get a UTI after sex, but that doesn’t mean it’s necessarily an STI. ¹

Several common bacteria can cause UTIs, but Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumonia are the most common culprits.³ E. coli is responsible for up to 95% of UTIs alone.³

Signs it’s more likely to be a UTI:

• burning sensation while peeing
• more frequent peeing than usual
• cloudy urine, although infection is still possible if urine is clear
• slight pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis
• no abnormal discharge
• Blood in your pee is more common in UTIs but can be a symptom of some STIs.

What to do if you think you have a UTI:

• If your symptoms are mild and you don’t have a fever, keep well hydrated. Aim for 2–3 liters of water a day, but no need to overdo it.
• If your symptoms persist after 24 hours or you experience fever, chills, or nausea, see your doctor.
• Try not to hold in your pee, even if it hurts. 
• It’s common for people with vaginas to get UTIs now and then, as their urethras are shorter.⁴ But if they occur very frequently or become severe, you should see your doctor.

What’s an STI?

STIs are generally transmitted through unprotected sexual contact with an infected partner.⁵ However, it’s also possible to be infected when you use protection.⁶

They are also very common: more than 1 million STIs are acquired every day worldwide.⁵

There are more than 30 known bacteria, parasites, and viruses that can cause STIs. The 8 most common STIs are:⁵

• chlamydia 
• gonorrhea
• syphilis
• trichomonas vulvovaginitis
• herpes
• HIV
• hepatitis B
• HPV.

Some STIs can share symptoms with UTIs, such as burning while peeing and pain in the lower abdomen.

Signs it’s more likely to be an STI:

• abnormal discharge from your vagina or penis
• genital blisters or rash
• pain during intercourse
• itchiness
• lumps in the groin
• heavier, more painful periods or bleeding outside your normal periods

It’s important to know you can have an STI and a UTI at the same time. 

What to do if you think you have an STI:

• See your doctor. Bear in mind that STIs may not cause symptoms straight away.
• If you do have an STI, inform any recent sexual partners so they can get tested too.

What can you do to prevent them?

There are precautions you can take to reduce your risk of catching UTIs and STIs.

Protecting yourself against UTIs:

• Wipe from front to back after going to the toilet, especially if you have a vagina.
• Pee within 20 minutes after vaginal sex.
• Drink plenty of water so that fluid is always moving through your system.

Protecting yourself against STIs:

• Use a condom. However, nothing is 100% safe. If you’re concerned you might have an STI, even after safe sex, check with your doctor.

At the clinic, your doctor may ask you questions like ‘Did you use a condom?’ or ‘Did you have multiple sexual partners?’ It’s not so they can judge you. It’s so they can organize what further tests you need. So, don’t be shy or feel ashamed about your answers.

With a few minor changes, you can take good care of yourself. You can start making better health choices now

---

1. CDC. “Urinary Tract Infection.” Accessed March 2021. 

2. Flores-Mireles, A.L., et al. Nat Rev Microbiol, (2015), doi: 10.1038/nrmicro3432.

3. Behzadi, P., et al. Maedica (Bucur), (2010), PMID: 21977133.

4. Valiquette, L. Can J Urol, (2001), PMID: 11442991.

5. WHO. “Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).” Accessed March 2021.

6. Wagenlehner, F.M.E., et al. Dtsch Arztebl Int, (2016), doi: 10.3238/arztebl.2016.0011.

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## Difference Between UTIs and STIs: A Comprehensive Guide



Differentiating between **urinary tract infections (UTIs)**⁢ and **sexually transmitted infections (STIs)** ⁤is crucial for timely diagnosis and⁢ effective treatment.



**What is a​ Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?**



A UTI refers to an infection⁤ in the urinary system, specifically the urethra, bladder, ureters, or ⁢kidneys. UTIs are often caused by bacteria that ⁣enter the urethra and travel upwards.



**Symptoms of a UTI:**



* Burning ⁢or pain during urination

* Frequent urination

* Strong-smelling urine

* Cloudy or bloody⁤ urine

* Lower abdominal pain



**What is a​ Sexually Transmitted‍ Infection (STI)?**



STIs ‌are infections that are passed on through sexual contact. They are caused by a‍ variety of bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Some common STIs include:



* Chlamydia

* Gonorrhea

* Syphilis

* Herpes

* HIV



**Symptoms of an STI:**



Symptoms can vary depending on the type of STI:



* Genital sores​ or‌ blisters

* Painful or itching genitals

* Unusual discharge ​from the penis or vagina

* Painful or frequent ⁤urination

* Swollen lymph nodes



**How to Differentiate Between UTIs and STIs**



* **Location:** UTIs ‍affect the urinary ‌system, while STIs primarily affect the genitals.

* **Symptoms:** While both can cause pain during urination, UTIs‍ typically involve urinary discomfort⁤ and changes in⁣ urine⁤ characteristics, while STIs often manifest as genital symptoms like sores ⁣or discharge.

* **Cause:** UTIs are usually caused by bacteria, while STIs are⁢ transmitted through sexual‌ contact.

* **Risk Factors:** UTIs are more common ‍in women, while​ STIs can affect both men and women.



**When to Seek Medical Attention**



It is important to seek medical ‍attention if you experience symptoms suggestive of a UTI or ‌STI. Prompt ⁣diagnosis and treatment can prevent ⁣complications.



**Prevention**



* Practice good urinary hygiene

* Use‍ protection during sexual intercourse

* Get tested for STIs regularly



**Conclusion**



Understanding the difference‌ between UTIs and STIs is essential for early detection and⁢ appropriate ⁣treatment. By considering factors such as location, symptoms, and cause, individuals can differentiate between these infections and seek the‌ necessary medical care. Remember, prompt diagnosis and treatment are vital to‌ prevent potential health complications.