To Book an Appointment

Urinary Tract Infections (UTI) in Men: Myths vs. Facts

By Dr. Amit Goel in Urology , Kidney Transplant , Uro-Oncology , Robotic Surgery

Nov 11 , 2025 | 2 min read

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are often seen as a “women’s problem,” but men can get them too, especially after the age of 40. Unfortunately, many misconceptions prevent men from seeking timely medical help. Here’s a clear breakdown of the common myths and the real facts every man should know.

Myth 1: Men Don’t Get UTIs

Fact: While UTIs are more common in women, men, especially those above 50, are at increased risk.

As men age, prostate enlargement (BPH) becomes common. This can block urine flow, allowing bacteria to multiply and cause infection. Diabetes, kidney stones, poor hydration, and unprotected sexual activity can also increase risk.

Myth 2: A Burning Sensation Is the Only Symptom

Fact: UTI symptoms in men can be subtle.

Apart from burning while urinating, men may experience:

Frequent urge to pass urine
Cloudy, foul-smelling urine
Pain in the lower abdomen, groin, or back
Blood in urine
Fever or chills (suggesting the infection has reached the kidneys)
Painful ejaculation

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to complications, including prostate infection or kidney damage.

Myth 3: UTIs Happen Only Due to Poor Hygiene

Fact: Hygiene is important, but UTIs in men are often medical, not hygiene-related.

In many cases, the cause is:

Prostate enlargement
Blocked urine flow
Kidney stones
Uncontrolled diabetes
Weak immune system

Good hygiene reduces risk but does not eliminate it.

Myth 4: UTIs Go Away on Their Own

Fact: UTIs rarely resolve without treatment.

Left untreated, the infection can spread from the bladder to the kidneys or even the bloodstream. Men should avoid self-medication and always get a urine test and a doctor's evaluation for accurate treatment.

Myth 5: Cranberry Juice Is Enough to Treat UTIs

Fact: Cranberries may help prevent recurrent infections, but they cannot treat an active UTI.

Bacterial infections require antibiotics chosen based on a urine culture. Relying solely on home remedies delays proper care.

Myth 6: UTI Means There’s an STD

Fact: A UTI is not the same as a sexually transmitted disease.

Though sexual activity can sometimes introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, most UTIs are not sexually transmitted. A doctor can differentiate between UTI, prostatitis, and STDs through tests.

Myth 7: Only Older Men Need to Worry

Fact: While UTIs increase with age, younger men can also get them, especially if they have:

Unprotected intercourse
Urinary tract abnormalities
Catheter use
Poor hydration
Kidney stones

Ignoring symptoms can quickly worsen the infection regardless of age.

How Men Can Prevent UTIs

Simple habits can significantly reduce the chances of infection:

Stay well-hydrated
Don’t hold urine for long
Maintain sexual hygiene
Manage diabetes properly
Get prostate check-ups after 40
Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which irritate the bladder

Seek medical help for lower urinary symptoms like a weak stream or difficulty in urination.

When Should Men See a Doctor?

Visit a specialist at Max Hospital, Gurugram, if you notice:

Burning during urination
Frequent urination or urgency
Blood in urine
Lower abdominal or back pain
Fever along with urinary symptoms

Early diagnosis prevents complications and ensures faster recovery.

UTIs in men are common, treatable, and preventable. What matters most is timely medical attention. If you’re experiencing urinary symptoms, don’t ignore them. Get expert guidance from the Urology team at Max Hospital, Gurugram.

Written and Verified by: