Common Myths and Facts About Urinary Tract Infections

January 21st, 2026 by Don Bui

Did you know that not all UTIs require antibiotics? Or that cloudy urine isn’t always a sign of infection? And what about the fact that men can get this disease too? We tend to think we know everything about UTIs, but the reality is often more complex and interesting. In this article, we debunk the most persistent myths and provide simple prevention guidelines. We have verified facts about UTIs!

UTI Facts and Myths

Let’s discuss the most common myths about UTIs. Some of them are true, but you shouldn’t take everything at face value. And most importantly, always consult your doctor.

Do All UTIs Cause Symptoms?

Most UTIs do cause symptoms. But sometimes this bacteria doesn’t cause any signs. And the person doesn’t seek medical attention. Doctors call this condition asymptomatic bacteriuria. It is especially common in older adults and those who use a catheter to empty the bladder.

Is Cloudy or Foul-Smelling Urine a Sign of a UTI?

Many such infections are indeed accompanied by cloudy, foul-smelling urine. However, this can also be influenced by the amount of water consumed or food eaten. So this symptom doesn’t always indicate an infection. But it’s always a reason to see a doctor!

Are Urinary Tract Infections Exclusive to Women?

This is a common misconception. In fact, both men and women can get them. However, men are less likely to get them. Why? Women have a shorter urethra, so bacteria can more easily enter the bladder. Postmenopausal women are even more likely to get them. Changes in the vaginal and urethral tissues are caused by low estrogen levels, which increase the risk of infection.

Do All UTIs Need to Be Treated with Antibiotics?

This is a myth. Some people have bacteria in their bladders but don’t experience any symptoms. Asymptomatic bacteriuria usually requires no treatment. Pregnant women, people scheduled for urological surgery, and people with weakened immune systems should likely be treated for this condition. Antibiotics help eliminate UTIs when a person experiences painful symptoms and bacteria are present in the urine.

Does Poor Hygiene Cause UTIs?

Even with excellent hygiene, the risk of UTIs remains. But some actions can actually increase the risk. Wiping from back to front after a bowel movement is highly harmful.

Does Drinking Cranberry Juice Help Protect against Urinary Tract Infections?

This isn’t such a myth. A review of 50 scientific studies concluded that cranberry juice reduces the risk of developing a new urinary tract infection in women with recurrent infections, children, and post-surgical patients. D-mannose and vitamin C, which are found in cranberries, are beneficial. However, to get only the benefits of this juice, choose a glucose-free version.

Can UTIs Be Transmitted to Your Partner?

They are not contagious. They are not transmitted during sexual intercourse or casual physical contact. But there is a catch. Sexual activity can indeed increase the risk of developing UTIs, but it doesn’t cause them. Therefore, doctors don’t classify UTIs as sexually transmitted infections. So why does sexual intercourse sometimes trigger this condition? Sexual intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urethra, the passageway that empties the bladder. How can you reduce the risk? Go to the bathroom after sex to remove some of the bacteria before they can cause an infection.

Can Taking Probiotics Protect against UTIs?

Well, you can take them as you wish. But the benefit specifically for treating a urinary tract infection is likely minimal.

Do UTIs Resolve on Their Own?

Asymptomatic bacteriuria can indeed resolve without treatment. However, symptomatic urinary tract infections rarely resolve on their own. If you experience burning, pain, or a frequent urge to urinate, be sure to see a doctor. A specialist will take a urine sample and conduct a bacteriological examination. The doctor will then prescribe the appropriate treatment, and you will feel better.

Urinary Tract Infection Causes

Escherichia coli is usually found in the intestines, but it is the most common cause of UTIs. It easily spreads from the anus to the urethra due to the close proximity of the openings. Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, and Enterococcus faecalis also cause these infections.

Anything that blocks or obstructs the flow of urine can cause stagnation, which allows bacteria to proliferate. Kidney stones and an enlarged prostate in men, as well as tumors and congenital structural abnormalities, can obstruct urine flow.

With vesicoureteral reflux, urine flows backward from the bladder into the ureters/kidneys. This condition dramatically increases the risk of kidney infections. Sexual intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urethra, and the risk increases with the frequency of sexual intercourse and the presence of new partners.

Poor hygiene can also transfer E. coli from the anal area to the urethra. Spermicides and diaphragms can sometimes alter vaginal flora and promote bacterial growth. Prolonged urinary retention allows bacteria to multiply in the bladder. Concentrated urine and infrequent urination create a more favorable environment for bacteria. So, drink plenty of water!

Unfortunately, urinary catheters are the leading cause of hospital-acquired UTIs. They allow bacteria to enter the bladder. Surgery or medical instrument examinations can introduce bacteria into the bladder. In postmenopausal women, declining estrogen levels cause changes in the urinary tract. Diabetes, HIV/AIDS, or immunosuppressants reduce the body’s ability to fight infections. Hormonal and physical changes during pregnancy also increase the risk of urinary tract and kidney infections. Multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injuries can prevent the bladder from emptying, leading to urinary stasis. Some people have cell receptors that allow bacteria to more easily attach to the lining of the urinary tract.

Signs of Urinary Tract Infection

UTI symptoms depend on which part of the urinary tract is affected. The lower urinary tract includes the bladder and urethra, while the upper urinary tract includes the kidneys. Upper UTIs include cystitis. When the infection affects the bladder, you will feel pain and burning when urinating. A frequent and strong urge to urinate should alert you. You may also feel that your bladder is not emptying. Sometimes, urine becomes cloudy or dark, and visible blood and a strong, unpleasant odor may appear. Some patients complain of discomfort or aching pain in the lower abdomen or pubic area. Be sure to consult a doctor.

Upper urinary tract infections sometimes lead to pyelonephritis. If the infection has spread to the kidneys, consult a doctor immediately! The person experiences a high fever, chills, and sweating. He suffers from severe, persistent pain in the side or lower back and below the ribs. Nausea and vomiting, severe weakness, general malaise, confusion, and disorientation are grave symptoms! Symptoms can be atypical, and you should be prepared for this. In older adults, the infection can present with sudden confusion, dizziness, weakness, and loss of appetite. In young children, doctors record a high fever without any other cause. Children may cry, be irritable, and refuse to eat. Parents should be concerned about bedwetting in a child who is already potty-trained.

What Should You Do if Symptoms Appear?

If you have symptoms of cystitis, consult your primary care physician or urologist immediately for a urine test and a prescription for the appropriate antibiotic. If you have symptoms of pyelonephritis, go to the emergency room immediately or call an ambulance.

How Can I Reduce My Risk of Urinary Tract Infections?

Follow our advice!

• Drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day, preferably.
• And also, urinate frequently. Never hold back the urge to go for too long; it’s harmful. It’s normal to urinate four to eight times a day.
• Always wipe from front to back after using the toilet.
• Urine immediately after intercourse.
• Take cranberry supplements.

Conclusion

Urinary tract infections can cause significant discomfort and be extremely dangerous. Don’t believe myths or treat the condition at home! This condition requires diagnosis and a professional approach.
The Orange County Urology Associates team consists of 11 leading urologists. We use the most advanced technology and treat each patient with sensitivity. Schedule a consultation and get rid of the symptoms that are bothering you.