Can Urine Infection Cause Itching? Here’s What You Need to Know

Are you dealing with intolerable itching down there and wondering if it is more than just an irritation? Most people associate urinary tract infections (UTIs) with pain and burning during urination, but can a urine infection cause itching? Let’s break it down and explore how to find relief!

Can a Urine Infection Cause Itching?

Wondering, “Does a UTI lead to itching?”

Yes, a urine infection — commonly known as a urinary tract infection (UTI) — can cause itching, although it’s not a typical symptom. UTIs are more frequently associated with symptoms like burning urination, pelvic pain, or frequent urges to pee. However, itching may occur, especially in the genital area, more often in women.

Here are the reasons why UTI-related itching occurs:

Directly as a UTI symptom:

The irritation and inflammation caused by the bacterial infection in the urinary tract can lead to itching in the urethra, bladder, and surrounding area.

Due to the Healing Process:

As the tissues of the urinary tract begin to heal, individuals may feel mild itching or discomfort during recovery.

Antibiotic side effects:

The antibiotics prescribed to treat UTIs may cause itching as a side effect, especially if they disturb the skin's natural balance.

Secondary yeast infections:

UTIs — particularly in females — can disrupt the natural bacterial balance in the urinary or vaginal area, leading to candidiasis (yeast infection). This condition is marked by:

• Intense itching

• Thick white discharge

• Redness and irritation

Other causes of genital itching:

Itching may not always be caused by a UTI. Other potential causes include:

• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), like trichomoniasis, herpes, or chlamydia

• Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis

• Fungal infections like jock itch

• Irritants such as scented hygiene products, harsh soaps, and even douches

• Allergic reactions to detergents or soaps

• Skin irritation from wearing tight clothes or sweating 

When to See a Doctor?

Consult the healthcare professionals if you experience itching accompanied by the following symptoms of a urinary tract infection:

• Burning sensation while urinating

• Pelvic or lower abdominal pain

• Frequent urge to urinate

• Unusual discharge from the genitals

With proper diagnosis, your doctor can determine the exact cause and recommend effective treatment.

Treatment for UTI Itching

The primary focus is to treat the urine infection, which provides comfort from itching. Here are the treatment options:

 Medical Treatments:

 Antibiotics:

Doctors prescribe antibiotics like:

• Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole

• Nitrofurantoin

• Amoxicillin/potassium clavulanate

• Ciprofloxacin

These medicines destroy infection-causing bacteria, which helps clear the urine infection and relieve itching.

Phenazopyridine:

This medicine is prescribed to relieve pain, itching, and burning sensations associated with the urinary tract infection. It numbs the urinary tract lining and reduces irritation.

Topical Cream or Ointments

In certain cases, healthcare providers may recommendmild and unscented topical creams or ointments to soothe external itching. These help:

• Restore moisture

• Rebalance genital microbiome

• Calm inflammation

Home Remedies

These remedies can help manage the symptoms of UTI:

• Warm Compresses: Apply a warm compress or heating pad to the lower abdominal or pelvic area to alleviate pain and itching.

• Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to flush out infection-causing bacteria from the urinary tract, which can reduce irritation and speed up healing.

• Avoiding Irritants: Do not use fragranced soaps, bubble baths, lotions, and other scented products, as they may irritate the genital area and worsen itching.

• Probiotics: Consume probiotic-rich foods, like unsweetened yogurt, to restore the healthy balance of good bacteria in the urinary tract. 

• Avoiding Bladder Irritants: Limit the use of spicy foods, alcohol, and artificial sweeteners, as they can irritate the bladder and even worsen the itching. 

Preventive Tips for Urinary Tract Infection

Approximately 30-50% of individuals who have had a UTI may experience it again within 6 to 12 months. Prevent recurrence with these tips:

• Practice good hygiene: Wash your genital area using water and avoid harsh and scented hygiene products, as they can disrupt balance of vaginal bacteria. Also, wipe the area from front to back to prevent the entry of bacteria from anus to urethra.

• Stay hydrated: Aim to drink at least 2 liters (8 glasses) of water, as it helps flush out the bacteria from the bladder. In hot weather or if physically active, increase your intake of water.

• Don’t hold your urine: Holding the urine allows the bacteria to grow and multiply, which can increase the risk of a urine infection.

• Urinate after sexual activity: Always urinate after sexual activity, as it helps eliminate bacteria that are present in the urinary tract.

• Avoid douching: Douching the genital area can remove the natural balance of healthy bacteria and support the growth of bad bacteria.

• Wear comfortable clothes: Choose loose-fitting pants and cotton underwear for better airflow and lower moisture, which can prevent the growth of bacteria.

• Consider probiotics: Eat probiotics like unsweetened yogurt or probiotic supplements to support the growth of healthy bacteria and prevent the recurrence of UTIs.

• Drink cranberry juice: According to the FDA, consuming 8 ounces of cranberry juice can prevent the risk of recurrence of UTI in healthy women. However, the studies are limited and inconsistent.

Is It UTI or Yeast Infection?

Sometimes, yeast infection can also lead to itching and can be mistaken for a urinary tract infection, as both conditions share the same symptoms. Here, how you can know the difference: 

Note: If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment.

Final Thoughts

Can a urine infection cause itching? Yes, although itching is not a primary symptom of UTI, it can sometimes occur, especially if a secondary yeast infection is present. If you experience itching along with burning sensations and pain while urination or frequent urination, it could be a sign of a UTI, a yeast infection, or both.

Read Also: Key Difference Between Thrush and Urinary Tract Infection