Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection affecting the urinary system. The infection impairs the function of the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys. This can potentiate the risk of complications and besides, some men might experience issues related to sexual function. 

UTI might give rise to erection difficulties and ejaculatory disorders. Although there is lack of adequate evidence that UTIs can directly cause erectile dysfunction (ED), there is quite a possibility of UTI-induced ED in older men.  

How does UTI affect the men?

UTI can occur in any part of the urinary system, and it affects the functioning of the organs. The bacteria that lead to UTIs usually enter the urinary system from outside the body. The infection can get better on its own, if not, it can be treated with medicines. The risk factors that enhance the chance of UTI in males are as follows:  

Aging – Men who are older than 50 are more prone to develop such infections.   

Prostate Enlargement – Also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a condition wherein the prostate grows abnormally.  It can give rise to difficulties in passing the urine. It blocks the urine flow which leads to the buildup of bacteria, thereby causing infection.   

Men with an enlarged prostate are at more risk of infections related to their urinary system. The abnormal growth and development of the prostate exert pressure on the surrounding organs and block the tubes that carry urine from the bladder and pass it to the penile duct for expelling.   

They may face pain and discomfort whenever passing urine. This makes them avoid urinating for longer. The accumulation of urine and its stagnation causes the development of bacteria giving rise to Urinary tract infections.      

Anal Sex – Men who indulge in anal sex are more prone to the risk of UTI. Since harmful bacteria live around the anal area, exposure to such bacteria increases the risk of this infection.  

Link between UTI and erectile dysfunction 

Frequent urination and symptoms of UTI can also impact your sexual performance. In men with this infection, the pain, irritation, and discomfort are felt around the pelvic region. Since the sexual organs are in the pelvis, it can make it harder for them to focus on sexual performance and get an erection. It can cause erectile dysfunction (ED) temporarily.  

The pain might also contribute to psychogenic erectile dysfunction. The symptoms might interfere with sexual arousal. The person may find it difficult to focus on intimacy and fail to get sexual satisfaction.  

Those with severe lower tract UTIs can exacerbate the symptoms of erectile dysfunction in older males. This can be managed with treatment. Your healthcare provider might suggest to you some effective treatment, such as ED medicines like