UTIs in men: Misconceptions, risks, and what to know

Medically reviewed by Dr. Betsy Koickel, MD on October 14, 2026.

You might typically think that urinary tract infections (UTIs) only impact women, but they can happen in men as well. Here’s what you need to know about UTI misconceptions in men, and how they may be linked to prostate health, urinary blockages, age, or other underlying risk factors. 

Misconceptions about UTIs in men

A UTI in men or women occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract. Symptoms can range from mild burning with urination to more serious signs like fever, back pain, or blood in the urine.

One of the biggest UTI misconceptions in men is that symptoms should be ignored or blamed on aging, dehydration, or sexual activity alone. But delaying care may allow an infection to worsen or reveal an underlying issue that needs attention.

Myth #1: “UTIs only affect women”

Women are indeed at higher risk for UTIs because their urethra is shorter, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. However, men can also develop UTIs, especially when certain risk factors like diabetes, dehydration, or advancing age are present.

Myth #2: “Men never get UTIs”

Men do get UTIs, but they are often associated with specific health conditions. In some cases, UTI-like symptoms may also be related to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), prostate inflammation, kidney stones, or urinary obstruction.

Because the possible causes vary, men with urinary symptoms should seek medical evaluation to obtain an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

What increases the risk of UTI in men?

Several UTI risk factors in men can increase the likelihood of infection. A few of these include:

Prostate health

The prostate surrounds part of the urethra. As men age, the prostate can enlarge and affect the ability of the bladder to empty fully. Bacterial buildup in the bladder may increase the risk of UTI.

Urinary blockages

Kidney stones, bladder stones, or anything that prevents urine from flowing normally can make it harder to flush bacteria from the urinary tract, increasing the risk of infection.

Age and chronic conditions

UTIs in men become more common with age, particularly due to age-related prostate enlargement, catheter use, diabetes, immune system changes, or other chronic conditions. 

Recognizing symptoms of UTI in men

Symptoms of UTI in men may overlap with other health conditions; it is always important to see a healthcare provider if you suspect a UTI.

Common symptoms

Common UTI in men symptoms may include:

• Burning or pain during urination
• Blood in the urine
• Cloudy urine
• Feeling like the bladder does not fully empty
• Frequent urination
• Lower abdominal or pelvic discomfort
• Strong-smelling urine
• Urgent need to urinate

Severe symptoms

UTIs can sometimes become more serious, especially if left untreated. Seek prompt medical care if you have fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, back or side pain, confusion, severe pelvic pain, or blood in the urine. These symptoms may suggest a more serious infection or another condition that needs medical attention. 

When should you seek medical help?

Men should not wait to seek care for UTI symptoms. Walk in or save your spot at urgent care if burning, urgency, frequency, or pelvic discomfort lasts more than a day or two, becomes worse, or occurs with fever, back pain, or blood in the urine. 

Treatment and prevention of UTIs in men

UTI treatment in men starts with a medical evaluation and urine testing. If a bacterial UTI is confirmed or strongly suspected, antibiotics may be prescribed. 

To help reduce the risk of UTIs, drink enough water, urinate regularly, avoid holding urine for long periods, practice safer sex, and address prostate or urinary flow concerns with a healthcare provider. 

Stay on top of your health: walk in or save your spot today!

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about UTI risk factors in men.

Are UTIs in men a sign of something serious?

Not always, but they should be evaluated. A urinary tract infection in men may be linked to prostate issues, stones, STIs, or urinary blockages. 

How can prostate health contribute to UTIs in men?

An enlarged prostate can reduce the flow of urine and prevent bacteria from exiting the bladder, increasing the risk of UTIs.

Can UTI in men be linked to sexual activity?

Yes. Some urinary symptoms after sexual activity may be caused by a UTI, but they may also be related to an STI, so it is best to test to determine the exact cause.

Is there a link between age and UTIs in men?

Yes, UTIs are more common in older men due to chronic conditions and prostate enlargement.

What lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of UTIs in men?

Drink water regularly, avoid holding urine, practice safer sex, manage chronic conditions, and talk with a healthcare provider about prostate or urinary symptoms.