Dear mo39,

Yes. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common in women and men who are sexually active. UTIs are caused by bacteria that have spread from the rectum to the penis or vagina and then to the urethra and bladder.

Symptoms include:

• burning pain during urination
• the urge to urinate when the bladder is nearly empty
• a frequent urge to urinate, especially during the night
• involuntary loss of urine
• lower abdominal or back pain
• blood or pus in the urine
• fever

These symptoms are very similar to those caused by some sexually transmitted infections, so it's important to have a health care professional make an accurate diagnosis. To make a confidential appointment at the nearest Planned Parenthood, call 1-800-230-PLAN.

Remember, latex or female condoms can reduce the risk of infection.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.