Should you clear your bladder before or after sex?

You have been told that urinating before sex is a must. Right? Well, it is actually harmful for you. Experts tell you…
We have heard a lot of different theories of do's and don’ts before and after sex. Urinating before sex has long been propagated as the right thing to do to prevent urinary tract infections (UTI). But a leading New York based urologist has said that it should be prohibited as it can actually increase the chances of UTI.
As we all know UTI is a common infection among women and occurs more in women than men.
David Kaufman has said, “Peeing before sex is one of the biggest misconceptions that he often clears for his female patients.” In fact it is urinating after sex that is actually important.
During intercourse, the bacteria present in the vagina can be pushed into the urethra. And so when you visit the washroom right after the act, you are preventing those bacteria from making its way into the bladder. They are easily removed in the stream.
There are times when the special lubricants on the condoms can also lead to irritation and may cause UTI. If this is the case, try using condoms without lubricant.
Sometimes the use of diaphragm as contraception can also lead to UTI, as it can press on the bladder and restrict complete emptying of the bladder.
Here are some tips you can follow to prevent UTI:
- Drink a lot of water to prevent dehydration. This will help flush out the bacteria from the urinary tract.
- Do not use strong soaps or disinfectants to clean your privates. "The harsh elements of the soaps or cleansers eliminate good bacteria that breed in your private parts and leave you exposed to infections. Also, it can interfere with the pH levels of the area," recommends Dr Meenakshi Ahuja, director, Obs and Gynae, Fortis La Femme.
- Keep the area dry. Dampness in your private parts will make way for infections. Also, change out of swimwear as soon as possible.- Do not hold the pee. Go to the toilet as soon as you feel the need to pee.
- When you go to the toilet, always wipe from front to back
- Wash your genitals daily and maintain good hygiene
- Drink cranberry juice and follow a healthy diet
- Urinate after sex