Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are common among women and can cause burning, urinary urgency, pelvic discomfort and frequent urination. While hygiene is often blamed, recurrent UTIs can also be influenced by hydration, sexual activity, hormonal changes, vaginal dryness and the vaginal microbiome.
Can vaginal dryness increase UTI risk?
Healthy vaginal and vulval tissues help protect against irritation and unwanted bacteria. When these tissues become dry, thin or sensitive, friction may lead to small amounts of irritation around the vaginal and urethral openings.
Vaginal dryness may be more common during:
- Perimenopause and menopause
- Breastfeeding and postpartum
- Periods of high stress
- Hormonal changes
- Use of certain medications
- Lower oestrogen can also affect protective vaginal bacteria and change vaginal pH, which may contribute to recurrent vaginal or urinary symptoms.
- Stay hydrated
Drinking enough water supports regular urination and helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract. Aim to drink consistently throughout the day rather than trying to catch up at night. Fluid needs may increase during hot weather, exercise, travel and illness.
Sodii Electrolytes: Electrolytes can support hydration by replacing important minerals such as sodium, potassium and magnesium. On regular days with minimal sweating, half a serve may be suitable, alongside adequate plain water. A full serve may be more appropriate during exercise, hot weather or increased sweating.
- Support vaginal and vulval dryness
Addressing vaginal dryness may help reduce irritation, friction and discomfort around the urethral area.
My recommendations are:
Olive & Bee Intimate Cream: Olive & Bee Intimate Cream contains extra virgin olive oil and beeswax to moisturise and protect dry or sensitive external intimate skin. Apply a small amount externally as needed. As it is oil-based, it should not be used with latex condoms.
YES WB Water-Based Lubricant: Use a water-based lubricant that’s pH friendly. Sexual activity can trigger UTIs by moving bacteria towards the urethra. When vaginal tissues are dry, increased friction may also cause irritation and post-intercourse burning. YES WB is a gentle, water-based lubricant that can help reduce friction and support comfort during intercourse. It is compatible with latex condoms and may be particularly helpful during breastfeeding, perimenopause, menopause or other times of vaginal dryness.
- Consider D-mannose
D-mannose is a naturally occurring sugar commonly used to support urinary tract health. It may help reduce the ability of certain bacteria, particularly some strains of E. coli, to stick to the urinary tract lining.
Additional UTI prevention tips
- Avoid regularly holding urine for long periods.
- Urinate after sexual activity.
- Wipe from front to back.
- Avoid vaginal douching and fragranced intimate products.
- Change out of wet swimwear or sweaty activewear.
- Choose breathable underwear.
- Seek further support if recurrent symptoms occur despite negative urine cultures.
Recurrent urinary symptoms may also be linked to vaginal dryness, thrush, bacterial vaginosis, sexually transmitted infections, pelvic floor tension or genitourinary syndrome of menopause. It’s important to understand your individual triggers and drivers, to choose appropriate urinary and intimate health support.
Kristan Richards
BHSc Naturopathy
