Bladder infections often occur when bacteria get into the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body, and then move into the bladder. Share on Pinterest A bladder infection may be caused by frequent sexual intercourse and not urinating immediately after sexual intercourse.
Causes
Bladder infections often occur when bacteria get into the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body, and then move into the bladder.
Once in the bladder, the bacteria can stick to the lining of the bladder, causing it to become inflamed, a condition known as cystitis. The bacteria can also move from the bladder into the kidneys, resulting in a kidney infection.
There are a number of factors that can increase the risk of getting a bladder infection, including:
- frequent sexual intercourse
- having sexual intercourse with a new partner
- using a diaphragm and a spermicide for birth control
- not urinating immediately after sexual intercourse
- having diabetes
- having a bladder or kidney infection within the past 12 months
- changes in the urinary system