Abdominal Pain and Urinary Issues After First Sexual Experience

Q: Abdominal Pain and Urinary Issues After First Sexual Experience

Hello, Miss： According to your statement, approximately 80% of urinary tract infections occur within 24 hours after sexual intercourse, and women are at a higher risk of developing urinary tract infections. <br>This is because the distance between the urethral and vaginal opening

A question?

Hello, doctor: Recently, when I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend for the first time, I felt bloated and experienced pain in my abdomen.
After urinating, I felt like I hadn't completely emptied my bladder, and I tried to urinate again but couldn't.
This sensation lasted throughout the day and continued for two to three days without improvement.
Could this be related to having sexual intercourse, or is it a urinary issue?

11, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/04/19

Dr. Chen Fuhao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, Miss: According to your statement, approximately 80% of urinary tract infections occur within 24 hours after sexual intercourse, and women are at a higher risk of developing urinary tract infections.
This is because the distance between the urethral and vaginal openings in women is very short, making sexual activity a potential opportunity for bacteria to invade the urinary tract.
Additionally, the female urethra is only about 4 centimeters long, allowing pathogens to easily enter the urethra and bladder.
Young newlywed women often suffer from cystitis after their honeymoon, which is a typical case of honeymoon cystitis.

After the first sexual encounter, the vaginal opening may be tighter and more sensitive, leading to potential injury and infection, resulting in swelling at the urethral opening, which can make urination difficult and cause urinary retention.
Due to the retention of urine, the pressure within the bladder increases, making it easier for bacteria to proliferate, leading to urethritis or cystitis.
Symptoms of acute cystitis may include lower abdominal pain, urgency to urinate, nocturia, burning sensation during urination, and even incontinence.
The symptoms of urethritis are similar but are usually milder and may develop more slowly, possibly accompanied by increased vaginal discharge, bleeding, or cervicitis.
However, if bacteria in the urine backflow into the ureters, it can spread the infection to the kidneys, leading to pyelonephritis, which presents with acute kidney infection symptoms such as fever, vomiting, flank pain upon percussion, and a general feeling of malaise.

In your case, a urinary tract infection is suspected.
It is advisable for you to seek a physician's diagnosis as soon as possible.
Effective use of antibiotics can shorten the duration of the illness and alleviate discomfort, typically over a course of about 7-10 days.

Reply Date: 2002/04/19

More Info

Experiencing abdominal pain and urinary discomfort after your first sexual encounter can be concerning and may indicate a few underlying issues. Based on the symptoms you've described, it is plausible that your discomfort is related to a urinary tract infection (UTI), which is quite common in women, especially after their first sexual experience.
When engaging in sexual activity, particularly for the first time, there are several factors that can contribute to discomfort. The proximity of the urethra to the vaginal opening means that bacteria can easily be introduced into the urinary tract during intercourse. This is particularly true if there is insufficient lubrication or if the activity is somewhat rough, which can lead to irritation or micro-tears in the vaginal tissue. These tears can create an entry point for bacteria, leading to a UTI.

The symptoms you are experiencing—abdominal bloating, pain, and a sensation of incomplete bladder emptying—are consistent with a UTI. After sexual intercourse, women may experience symptoms such as urgency, frequency of urination, and a burning sensation while urinating. In some cases, the bladder may become inflamed, leading to a feeling of pressure or discomfort in the lower abdomen.

It's important to note that the sensation of needing to urinate but being unable to do so can also be a sign of bladder irritation or infection. When the bladder is inflamed, it may send signals to the brain that it is full, even when it is not, leading to the feeling of incomplete emptying. This can be exacerbated by anxiety or stress related to the new experience of sexual activity.

Given that your symptoms have persisted for two to three days, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a urinalysis to check for the presence of bacteria, white blood cells, or other indicators of infection. If a UTI is confirmed, antibiotics are typically prescribed to clear the infection, and symptoms usually improve within a few days of starting treatment.

In addition to seeking medical advice, there are some preventive measures you can take to reduce the risk of UTIs in the future. These include:
1. Hydration: Drink plenty of water before and after sexual activity to help flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urinary tract.

2. Urination: Try to urinate before and after sexual intercourse. This can help clear the urethra of any bacteria introduced during sex.

3. Lubrication: Use a water-based lubricant during intercourse to reduce friction and the risk of irritation or micro-tears.

4. Hygiene: Maintain good genital hygiene. Wiping from front to back after using the bathroom can help prevent bacteria from the anal area from reaching the urethra.

5. Avoiding irritants: Be cautious with products such as douches, scented soaps, or feminine hygiene sprays, as these can irritate the vaginal area and increase the risk of infection.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to your first sexual experience, they are also indicative of a potential urinary tract infection. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Taking preventive measures can help reduce the likelihood of similar issues in the future.

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