Burning Desire

Dear Mistress Maeve:

I'm a 25-year-old female with an aggravating problem.

Usually, when my boyfriend and I have sex, I'm fine. However, when we have sex more than once in a 24-hour period, I end up with a urinary tract infection.

What's up with this, and how can I prevent it? I already pee after sex, so please don't give me that same advice.

Sincerely,
Feelin' the Burn

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Dear F.T.B.,

Rule #1: If anything burns in your nether regions, see your doctor!

Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are an unfortunate side effect of sex for many women. Infections can occur when common bacteria make their way up the urinary tract thanks to the friction caused by intercourse or other heavy petting — and the more you do, the greater the risk.

You're right, you should pee after intercourse — but also pee before sex; it's a good way to flush out potentially harmful bacteria. And remember, always wipe front to back! Obviously, drink lots of water to keep the flow going, but you might also consider drinking cranberry juice or adding a cranberry supplement to your diet.

I've heard friends say that their urinary tract infections all but disappeared when they switched positions to ones that cause less friction on the urethra (like doggy-style or reverse cowgirl). The less sweat, fluid and pressure on your pee-hole, the better.

Planned Parenthood of Northern New England cites E. coli, found in the rectal area, as a common culprit when it comes to UTIs. So please, if you're engaging in anal play, do not use the same fingers, toys or condoms in your vagina. No double dipping.

Follow these rules, and hopefully your burning desire won't turn into a burning disaster.

Going with the flow,
MM