Read: Masturbation Each Day Keeps the Doctor Away
So, Do You Need To Pee After Masturbating?
What you’re really asking is: “Can bacteria still get spread around during solo sex?”
The answer: Yes!
“Bacteria from your own genitals, thighs, and fingers or the toy you’re using can still be introduced near the urethra during masturbation,” says Dr. Landgon.
Read: 8 Masturbation Sex Positions for People With Vulvas
Might there be less bacteria than partnered sex? Maybe. But that’s not really the point, babes!
As she says, “The risk from a UTI developing from that bacteria getting into the urethra still stands.” That means your popping a squat should be part of your solo-play.
Interestingly, Dr. Langdon says peeing is extra important if your solo-sesh included anal penetration or you didn’t wash your hands (or scrub beneath your finger nails) pre-play.
She explains: “The bacteria from the anus can pretty easily transfer to the vulva and urethra. And it should be obvious why washing your hands before touching yourself is important.” Honestly, fair.
Your buzzy bae can also introduce bacteria to your bits—especially if the toy is made of a porous material like Polyvinylchloride (PVC), thermoplastic rubber (TPR), thermo-plastic elastomer (TPE), jelly rubber, and latex, all of which can’t be cleaned fully.
Read: Sex Toy Safety: A Guide to Materials
That’s why Dr. Langdon recommends, “invest in and use a non-porous toy made out of glass, stainless steel or silicone because they can be cleaned easily and fully.”
She adds that toys should be cleaned (and dried) immediately after and before use. That’s because even if you got your toy immaculately clean, it might have come into contact with lint, dirt, or fur before you used it again. Trust, that’s not the kind of pussy hair you want in and around your toy.
The Bottom Line
Peeing after masturbating is a good idea. Sure, getting up to go to the bathroom might be annoying, but this extra step is wayyy less unpleasant than a UTI.
If you prioritize peeing over post-coital cuddles or post-jerk Insta scrolls, but still get (or think you have) a UTI, call up your healthcare provider ASAP. The stingy, uncomfortable infection is easily treated with antibiotics.
If left untreated, urinary tract infections can spread to the bladder or kidneys and cause permanent damage, says Dr. Langdon.
Read: The Care and Cleaning of Quality Sex Toys
