Is a kidney or bladder infection contagious?

Kidney and bladder infections (UTIs) are not contagious in the traditional sense. You cannot catch them from another person through casual contact, such as touching, kissing, or coughing.

However, UTIs can be spread through sexual contact. This is because bacteria from the vagina or rectum can enter the urethra during sex and travel up into the bladder. Urinary tract infections are more likely to occur in women than men because women have a shorter urethra.

To reduce your risk of developing a UTI, you can take the following steps:

- Practice good hygiene, including washing the genital area regularly and wiping from front to back after using the bathroom.

- Empty your bladder frequently, especially after sex.

- Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.

- Avoid using harsh soaps or feminine hygiene products that can irritate the urethra.

- If you have recurrent UTIs, talk to your doctor about preventive measures.

If you think you may have a UTI, it's important to see a doctor right away to get treatment. UTIs can lead to serious complications if left untreated.