Does a UTI Cause Itching?

Quick Answer UTIs usually cause burning during urination, urgency, and pelvic pain — not itching. If you experience itching, it’s more likely caused by a vaginal infection such as a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis. A UTI test can provide fast results to confirm the cause and help you get the right treatment. What Is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)? A urinary tract infection happens when bacteria — most commonly E. coli from the bowel — enter the urinary system. This system includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, but most infections affect the bladder and urethra. According to the PMC PubMed Central, about 50–60% of women will experience at least one UTI in their lifetime. Men are less likely to develop UTIs, but when they do, complications can be more severe. At Manhattan Medical Arts, our physicians frequently see patients with UTI symptoms. Based on our clinical experience, most patients report burning during urination, frequent urges to urinate, and pelvic discomfort. Itching is usually absent unless another condition overlaps. Common Symptoms of UTIs (Does Itching Belong Here?) Typical UTI symptoms include: Burning or stinging during urination Frequent urges to urinate, even when little comes out Cloudy or foul-smelling urine Lower abdominal or pelvic pressure Blood in urine (hematuria) Itching is not considered a hallmark UTI symptom. When itching is present, it usually points to a vaginal infection rather than a UTI. If you also notice discharge, odor, or swelling, a vaginal cause is more likely. See related: Occult Blood in Urine | Mucus in Urine Can a UTI Cause Itching? While uncommon, mild itching may occur during a UTI because of inflammation of the urethra and surrounding tissues. But in our collective medical practice experience, most patients who report itching alongside urinary discomfort are later diagnosed with: Yeast infection (candidiasis) Bacterial vaginosis (BV) Sexually transmitted infection (STI) This is why proper testing with results is essential. A urine test or vaginal swab can quickly confirm whether the cause is bacterial, fungal, or another condition. Book Walk-in, Virtual, or Online Appointment Where Does It Itch When You Have a UTI? UTI discomfort is usually inside the urethra or bladder — it feels like burning or stinging when urinating. Vaginal itching (outside the urethra) is more strongly linked to yeast infections or BV. If your main symptom is itching, visit a Women’s Health specialist or request STD testing. UTI vs Yeast Infection vs Bacterial Vaginosis Symptom UTI Yeast Infection BV Burning urination ✅ Sometimes ✅ Itching ❌ ✅ Sometimes Vaginal discharge ❌ Thick, white (“cottage cheese”) Thin, gray, fishy odor Pelvic pain ✅ ❌ ❌ Testing provides clear results. At Manhattan Medical Arts, we offer same-day appointments and walk-ins for quick answers. Get Tested for UTI or Yeast Infection Today UTI Itching Relief & Healing Stage If you feel itching while recovering from a UTI, it could mean: Vaginal irritation from antibiotics Co-existing yeast infection Local skin irritation Relief tips (with your provider’s guidance): Wear breathable cotton underwear Avoid perfumed soaps and douches Stay hydrated Use prescribed antifungal creams if yeast infection confirmed If itching continues, schedule an Online Doctor Visit. UTI in Women vs Men: Itching Differences Women: More likely to confuse UTI with yeast infection due to shorter urethra and vaginal anatomy. Men: Itching is rare, but UTIs may cause penile discharge or burning. Enlarged prostate and catheter use are risk factors. Men with urinary symptoms should seek STD Testing to rule out other infections. Testing & Diagnosis At Manhattan Medical Arts, testing for UTIs includes: Urinalysis – detects white blood cells & bacteria Urine culture – identifies exact bacteria type Ultrasound or imaging (if recurrent or complicated cases) Our patients value that we provide same-day appointments and fast results, helping them return to normal life quickly. See also: Physical Exam Center NYC Treatment Options Antibiotics – prescribed based on culture results (all FDA-approved medications). Phenazopyridine – temporary pain relief (turns urine orange). Hydration & OTC pain relievers – to support recovery. Untreated UTIs can progress to kidney infection (pyelonephritis). This requires urgent care. Learn more at Infectious Disease Prevention . Prevention & Lifestyle Advice Stay hydrated — clear or light-yellow urine indicates good hydration. Urinate after sexual activity. Wipe front-to-back. Wear breathable cotton underwear. Avoid scented sprays and vaginal douches. More preventive tips: Preventive Care U.S. Data Facts 10 million doctor visits annually in the U.S. are due to UTIs (PMC PubMed Central). 1 in 5 women will have at least one UTI (NIDDK). Recurrence is common: about 30% of women who have one UTI will experience another within 6 months (JAMA). FAQs about Does a UTI Cause Itching Final Takeaway At Manhattan Medical Arts, we understand the discomfort UTIs cause — and how confusing it can be when itching is part of the picture. That’s why our team, led by Dr. Syra Hanif, offers walk-in, same-day, and virtual appointments at both our Union Square and Forest Hills clinics. Call us at 646-454-9000 or schedule online today. Book Your Appointment Now