UTI or STD: How to Spot the Difference

As women, it’s important to understand the health issues that can affect our bodies, particularly those that involve our urinary and reproductive systems. Two common concerns are urinary tract infections (UTIs) and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). While they can cause similar symptoms, urinary tract infections and STDs are distinct conditions that require different treatments. 

The biggest difference is that urinary tract infections aren't sexually transmitted. Although sex can trigger a UTI, it doesn't mean the infection is spread from person to person through sexual contact.

Below, we give you a lowdown on what causes each, their shared and unique symptoms, and how to tell which one you might have. 

What is a UTI?

A urinary tract infection is primarily caused by bacteria entering the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. The most common culprit is Escherichia coli (E. coli), which usually lives in the gastrointestinal tract, but many other bacteria can cause UTIs as well.  Here’s how bacteria can find their way into your urinary tract:

• Poor hygiene: Not wiping from front to back after using the bathroom can transfer bacteria to the urethra.
• Sexual activity: Penetration can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract.
• Certain types of birth control: Spermicides, diaphragms, and certain types of birth control can increase the risk of UTIs.
• Hormone deficiency: Lower estrogen levels during menopause, postpartum, or while breastfeeding can cause changes in the urinary tract that make it more vulnerable to infections.

UTI symptoms include:

• A burning sensation when you pee
• Frequent urination
• Feeling like you can’t fully empty your bladder
• Urine that appears red, bright pink, or brown
• Pelvic pain
• Flu-like symptoms. 

What is an STD?

STDs, also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infections passed from one person to another through unprotected sex or sexual contact, including: 

• Vaginal sex
• Anal sex
• Oral sex
• Sharing sex toys
• In some cases, skin-to-skin contact.

Sexually transmitted diseases can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Here are some common STDs and their causes:

• Chlamydia and gonorrhea: Caused by bacteria (Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, respectively).
• Genital herpes: Caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV).
• Genital warts: Caused by various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV).
• Syphilis: Caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.
• Trichomoniasis: Caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis.

STD symptoms can vary based on the type of infection, and often they don’t cause any symptoms at all. But when they do, the most common symptoms may include: 

• Abnormal discharge (different color, odor, or consistency)
• Vaginal itching or irritation
• Painful sex 
• Sores, bumps, or blisters around the vagina, vulva, or anus
• Flu-like symptoms (fever, body aches) in the case of some viral infections like herpes.

Unlike UTI symptoms, STI symptoms aren't always immediate or obvious. Certain infections can have no clear symptoms and others remain dormant. Because of this, using prevention tools like condoms can help stop the spread of STIs. 

Shared symptoms 

UTIs and STDs share a few symptoms, making it challenging to tell them apart. Here are the common symptoms you might experience with both:

• Pain or burning sensation when you pee
• Frequent urination
• Lower abdominal pain or discomfort
• Cloudy or bloody urine.

How to know whether you have a UTI or STD

If you’re experiencing symptoms and aren't sure if it's a UTI or STD, it's best to see your healthcare provider or take an STD test.

If you think it's a UTI, your healthcare provider will start by asking about your symptoms and medical history. They may also ask for a urine sample to test and check for specific bacteria.

To diagnose a sexually transmitted disease, your healthcare provider may do a pelvic exam and a vaginal swab to check for physical symptoms. The swab is then tested for bacteria, viruses, or parasites. You can also take an at-home STD test for chlamydia, gonorrhea, or trichomoniasis. Testing for STDs like syphilis and HIV will require a blood test.

Treatment options

Luckily, both UTIs and STDs are fairly straightforward to treat. 

Treatment for UTIs includes:

• Antibiotics: The primary treatment for UTIs. It’s important to take the full course prescribed by your doctor, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication.
• Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate discomfort.
• Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.

Treatment for STDs includes:

• Antibiotics: Effective for bacterial STDs. It’s crucial to follow the prescribed treatment and inform your sexual partners for them to get treated as well.
• Antiviral medications: Used to manage viral STDs like herpes and HIV. These medications can clear up symptoms and the risk of transmission but can’t cure the infection.
• Follow-up care: Regular STD testing are important to manage and monitor the condition.

FAQ

How do I know if it’s a UTI or STD?

Signs of a UTI can often overlap with those of an STD, so it can be hard to tell the difference based on symptoms alone. Although some symptoms might point toward an STD (for example, blisters, warts, or sores on the genitals or unusual vaginal discharge), STDs don’t always cause noticeable symptoms. The only real way to know if you have a UTI or STD is to take an STD test.

Can chlamydia feel like a UTI?

Yes, chlamydia can sometimes feel like a UTI because they share similar symptoms such as a burning when you pee, needing to pee often, and discomfort in the lower abdomen. Sometimes it can be hard to tell the difference without proper testing. But chlamydia, which is a sexually transmitted infection, can also come with other signs like unusual vaginal discharge, pain during sex, or sometimes no signs at all, which can be easy to miss. If you're experiencing these symptoms and have been sexually active, it's a good idea to see a healthcare provider for testing and to get the right treatment.

What STD causes urinary symptoms?

Several STDs can cause urinary symptoms similar to those of a urinary tract infection. The most common STDs that can lead to painful urination, increased frequency or urgency to pee, and discomfort in the lower abdomen are chlamydia and gonorrhea. Trichomoniasis can also result in urinary symptoms like itching or burning. Additionally, the herpes simplex virus can lead to painful urination when sores are present around the genital area. If you experience urinary symptoms and have been sexually active, it's important to seek medical advice for proper testing and diagnosis to ensure you receive the correct treatment.