UTI in Men

A urinary tract infection is an infection of the bladder or urinary tract. A UTI in men is less common than in women and is more likely to involve the prostate. It should always be checked and treated.

What Is It

UTIs in men are more common after age 50, often from an enlarged prostate that keeps the bladder from emptying. Kidney stones, catheters, and some STDs can also cause them. A UTI in men may need a longer course of treatment.

Symptoms

Burning or pain when peeing
Needing to pee often or urgently
Cloudy or strong smelling urine
Blood in urine
Pain in the lower belly, groin, or between the scrotum and rectum
Fever or chills

Not sure it’s a UTI? Burning with pelvic pain and fever may be prostatitis. Learn more about the general signs of a UTI.

Treatment

At your visit: A urine test and urine culture confirm a UTI and guide the right antibiotic. Confidential STD testing may be part of the visit. Men often need a longer course than women. Repeat infections may need a urologist.

At home:

Drink plenty of water
Pee when you feel the urge
Avoid alcohol and caffeine while healing
Finish all antibiotics if prescribed

Most UTIs in men improve within a few days of starting treatment.

When to Get Care for a UTI in Men

Watch at Home

Symptoms already improving on treatment
No fever

Come to Urgent Care Today

Burning or frequent urination
Blood in urine
Fever with urinary symptoms
Pain between the scrotum and rectum
Symptoms returning after treatment

Go to the Emergency Department

Unable to pee
High fever with shaking chills
Severe side or back pain with vomiting
Confusion or feeling faint

FAQ

What are the symptoms of a UTI in men?

Symptoms of a UTI in men include burning when peeing, needing to go often, cloudy or bloody urine, and pain in the lower belly or pelvis.

Why do men get UTIs?

Men get UTIs most often from an enlarged prostate that keeps the bladder from emptying. Kidney stones, catheters, and some STDs can also cause them.

Is a UTI in men serious?

A UTI in men is usually treatable but should always be checked. It is more likely to involve the prostate or kidneys than in women.

How long does a UTI in men last?

A UTI in men usually improves within a few days of treatment. Treatment often lasts 7 to 14 days. Finish all medicine even if you feel better.

Can urgent care treat a UTI in men?

Yes, urgent care can treat a UTI in men. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can test your urine and offer confidential STD testing. No appointment or referral is needed.

When is a UTI in men an emergency?

A UTI in men is an emergency when you cannot pee, have high fever with shaking chills, severe side pain with vomiting, or confusion.

Last reviewed October 2026