A UTI in men is less common than in women, but it often signals something worth investigating. Many men are surprised to learn they can even get a urinary tract infection, so they may ignore symptoms like burning, urgency, or cloudy urine. That delay can be a problem, because in men a UTI is more likely to be linked to an underlying issue such as an enlarged prostate or a kidney stone.
This guide explains what causes a UTI in men, the symptoms to watch for, and when a urologist should step in. The board-certified team at Ackerman Urology helps men across Northeast Florida get to the root cause, not just the symptoms.
Key Takeaways
- UTIs are less common in men, but when they happen they are more likely to be complicated.
- Male anatomy (a longer urethra) offers some protection, which is why male UTIs often have an underlying cause.
- Common causes include enlarged prostate, kidney stones, and incomplete bladder emptying.
- Symptoms include burning, frequent urination, cloudy or bloody urine, and pelvic pain.
- Recurring UTIs in men should always be evaluated by a urologist.
Can Men Really Get UTIs?
Yes. A urinary tract infection happens when bacteria, usually from the digestive tract, enter the urinary system and multiply. While women get UTIs far more often, men absolutely can too, and the risk rises with age.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), UTIs become more common in men after age 50, largely because prostate problems become more frequent. In younger men, UTIs are uncommon and are often considered complicated by default, meaning they usually deserve a closer look.
Why UTIs Are Less Common in Men
Male anatomy provides some natural protection. The male urethra is roughly 8 inches long, compared to about 1.5 inches in women, so bacteria have a longer path to travel to reach the bladder. Prostate secretions also have some antibacterial properties. Because of this built-in defense, when a man does get a UTI, doctors often look for a reason behind it.
What Causes a UTI in Men?
Because male UTIs are less common, the cause matters as much as the infection itself. Several conditions treated by a urologist can raise the risk.
Enlarged Prostate (BPH)
An enlarged prostate is one of the leading causes of UTIs in older men. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can block urine flow and prevent the bladder from emptying fully. Leftover urine becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. If you have urinary symptoms alongside infections, BPH may be involved. Learn about treatment approaches on the Ackerman Urology resources page.
Kidney Stones
Stones can block the flow of urine and trap bacteria, leading to infection. A UTI combined with a kidney stone can become serious quickly and sometimes requires urgent care.
Incomplete Bladder Emptying
Any condition that keeps the bladder from emptying, including nerve problems, prostate enlargement, or urethral narrowing, increases infection risk. Urine that sits in the bladder allows bacteria to grow.
Other Risk Factors
- Use of a urinary catheter
- Diabetes, which can weaken infection defenses
- Recent urologic surgery or procedures
- A previous UTI
- Not being circumcised, in some cases
Symptoms of UTI in Men
UTI symptoms in men are similar to those in women, though the underlying cause is more likely to be structural. Watch for:
- A burning feeling during urination
- Needing to urinate often or urgently
- Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine
- Blood in the urine
- Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis
- Waking at night to urinate more than usual
When infection spreads to the kidneys or prostate, symptoms can become more severe.
When Symptoms Signal Something Serious
Certain signs mean you should seek care quickly. Fever, chills, back or flank pain, nausea, or a general feeling of being very unwell can indicate the infection has reached the kidneys (pyelonephritis) or prostate (prostatitis). The Mayo Clinic notes that kidney infections can cause lasting damage if not treated promptly. Do not wait these symptoms out.
How Is a UTI in Men Diagnosed and Treated?
Diagnosis usually starts with a urinalysis and urine culture. The urinalysis checks for white blood cells, bacteria, and blood, while the culture identifies the specific bacteria and which antibiotics will work best.
| Type of UTI | Where It Is | Typical Treatment Length |
|---|---|---|
| Simple bladder infection | Bladder (cystitis) | About 7 days of antibiotics |
| Prostate infection | Prostate (prostatitis) | Often 4 to 6 weeks of antibiotics |
| Kidney infection | Kidneys (pyelonephritis) | 10 to 14 days, sometimes IV antibiotics |
Because male UTIs are often complicated, treatment courses tend to be longer than the short courses sometimes used for women. It is important to finish the full course even if you feel better, to prevent the infection from returning or becoming resistant.
When a Urologist Should Get Involved
A single, straightforward UTI may be handled by a primary care provider. But you should see a urologist if you have recurring UTIs, blood in your urine, symptoms of an enlarged prostate, a suspected kidney stone, or infections that do not clear with antibiotics. A urologist can order imaging, check how well your bladder empties, and look for the underlying cause. You can meet the practice’s board-certified urologists on the Ackerman Urology team page, including Robert Busch, DO.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do men get UTIs in the first place?
Bacteria, usually from the bowel, enter the urethra and travel up to the bladder. In men, this is often made easier by an underlying issue such as an enlarged prostate, a kidney stone, or incomplete bladder emptying that lets urine and bacteria linger. That is why male UTIs frequently point to a cause worth investigating.
Will a UTI in men go away on its own?
It is not safe to assume it will. Some very mild cases may improve, but male UTIs are considered complicated and can spread to the prostate or kidneys if untreated. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, prompt antibiotic treatment is the standard approach. See a provider rather than waiting it out.
Can an enlarged prostate cause recurring UTIs?
Yes. An enlarged prostate can block urine flow and prevent the bladder from emptying completely, leaving urine that lets bacteria grow. This is a common reason older men get repeat infections. Treating the underlying prostate condition often reduces how often UTIs return, which is why urologic evaluation is valuable.
How long does it take to recover from a UTI?
A simple bladder infection often improves within a few days of starting antibiotics, though the full course may run about 7 days. Prostate infections can take 4 to 6 weeks to fully clear. Always complete the entire prescription, even after symptoms fade, to prevent the infection from coming back.
Are UTIs in men a sign of a bigger problem?
They can be. Because UTIs are uncommon in men, doctors often view them as a clue rather than a standalone issue. Recurring infections may point to an enlarged prostate, kidney stones, or bladder problems. A urologist can identify and treat the root cause, which helps prevent future infections.
Do Not Ignore a UTI
A UTI in men is more than an inconvenience. Because it often signals an underlying issue, treating the infection is only half the job. Finding and addressing the cause, whether that is an enlarged prostate, a kidney stone, or incomplete bladder emptying, is what prevents the problem from coming back.
If you are dealing with burning, urgency, or a UTI that keeps returning, the physician-owned urologists at Ackerman Urology can help you find lasting answers. Serving Jacksonville, World Golf Village, Jacksonville Beach, Middleburg, and surrounding Northeast Florida communities, the practice offers thorough evaluation and treatment for UTI in men. Call (904) 490-7400 or complete your new patient forms to schedule an appointment.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. See a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any urinary tract infection. Recurring or complicated UTIs in men should be evaluated by a urologist.
