Neat Little Guide — 7 minutes
Urinary tract infections: Myths and facts
March 29, 2024

Can walking barefoot really cause a urinary tract infection? This is one of the many sometimes far-fetched myths that are passed down from generation to generation. We consulted a number of reliable sources online to untangle fact from fiction regarding urinary tract infections (UTIs). Here are some of the myths, according to the renowned Mayo Clinic [1] and Stanford University.[2]
Urinary tract infections only affect women.
FALSE
Women are indeed more often affected by urinary tract infections, due to the proximity of their urethra (the duct connecting the bladder to the urinary meatus) and their bladder, which is larger than in men, allowing bacteria to reach the bladder more easily. However, men can also be affected, especially as they get older.
Urinary tract infections always involve symptoms.
FALSE
Nearly half of all urinary tract infections may be asymptomatic, which is more common among older adults and people who use a catheter.
All urinary tract infections must be treated with antibiotics.
FALSE
In general, asymptomatic infections do not require treatment, unless the patient is pregnant, is immunocompromised, or is preparing for urological surgery.
Symptomatic urinary tract infections can clear up on their own.
FALSE
Unlike asymptomatic infections, which may clear up on their own, symptomatic infections do not usually go away without treatment. If they are not treated promptly, they can lead to serious health complications, such as pyelonephritis.
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Urinary tract infections are sexually transmitted (STBBIs) and can spread from person to person.
FALSE
Urinary tract infections are not contagious and cannot be transmitted sexually. However, sexual relations do increase the risk of developing such an infection. In addition, many STBBIs have symptoms similar to those of a urinary tract infection.
Washing the vagina with soap and water helps prevent urinary tract infections.
FALSE
This practice not only fails to protect against urinary tract infections, it can also upset the pH and normal balance of bacteria in the vagina.
Cloudy or foul-smelling urine is a sign of a urinary tract infection.
FALSE
Although many urinary tract infections are accompanied by cloudy, foul-smelling urine, other factors such as the amount of water you drink or food you eat may be responsible for these symptoms.
Drinking cranberry juice helps protect against urinary tract infections.
MORE OR LESS TRUE
The protective effect of cranberry juice against urinary tract infections is controversial. A review of 50 scientific studies published in 2023 in the Cochrane Library[3] concluded that cranberry juice reduces the risk of a new UTI developing in women with recurrent infections, as well as in children and post-operative patients. Components in cranberries, such as D-mannose and vitamin C, are probably also beneficial. However, to enjoy all its benefits, it is advisable to avoid cranberry juice high in glucose!
Taking probiotics can protect against urinary tract infections.
MORE OR LESS TRUE
The evidence for the efficacy of probiotics in regenerating the vaginal microbiome and preventing urinary tract infections is inconclusive. You can take them if you wish, but the potential benefits are likely to be minimal.
Urinary tract infections are caused by poor hygiene.
FALSE
Even with impeccable hygiene, the risk of a urinary tract infection remains. However, certain practices, such as wiping from back to front after a bowel movement, can increase the risk.[4]
Finally, here are four misconceptions that have no serious scientific basis:[4]
- Avoid sitting on cold surfaces.
- Avoid getting your feet cold.
- Avoid removing pubic hair.
- Avoid using public toilets.
How to reduce the risk of urinary tract infection?
Here are a few recommendations based on reputable scientific studies or simple common sense:[5]
- Drink plenty of liquids, at least 1.5 litres per day, preferably water.
- Empty your bladder often. It is normal to urinate four to eight times per day.
- Urinate immediately after sexual intercourse.
- Always wipe from front to back after using the toilet.
- Take cranberry supplements (may be beneficial).
We offer fast diagnosis for urinary and vaginal infections and provide treatment adapted to your needs.
- Consultation for urinary tract infections and unusual vaginal discharge
- Trichomoniasis detection
- STD screening
Take a few minutes to assess your symptoms and confirm your eligibility to a consultation with our short evaluation questionnaire. Book your appointment online or contact Biron Health Group's customer service at 1 833 590 2712.
Sources5
- Cynthia Weiss. “Mayo Clinic Q and A; 6 UTI myths and facts,” February 2, 2023, https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-6-uti-myths-and-facts/.
- J. Langner. “Busting myths about urinary tract infections,” Stanford University Scope, May 28, 2020, https://scopeblog.stanford.edu/2020/05/28/busting-myths-about-urinary-tract-infections-understanding-utis-part-3/.
- G. Williams, D. Hahn, J.H. Stephens, J.C. Craig and E.M. Hodson. “Cranberries for preventing urinary tract infections,” Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2023, Issue 4.
- Recurrent Cystitis Awareness Program (RECAP). “Do you know what are facts and what are myths?” https://recap-cystitis.com/hcp/myths-2.
- Mayo Clinic. “5 tips to prevent a urinary tract infection,” https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/5-tips-to-prevent-a-urinary-tract-infection.