Men’s health
UTI in men: symptoms, causes and why it needs checking
Urinary tract infections are less common in men than women, which is why a UTI in men usually needs proper assessment. Here is what to look out for.
In short: A UTI in men causes burning when urinating, frequency, urgency, cloudy or smelly urine and sometimes fever or pelvic pain. Men’s UTIs are often linked to an enlarged prostate, prostatitis, kidney stones, catheters or STIs. Because UTIs are less common in men, they should always be checked and treated by a medical professional.
Symptoms
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Needing to urinate often or urgently
- Cloudy, dark or strong-smelling urine
- Blood in the urine
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
- Fever, chills or back pain (may mean a kidney infection)
Common causes in men
- Enlarged prostate: incomplete emptying lets bacteria grow. See enlarged prostate natural remedies.
- Prostatitis. See prostatitis natural remedies.
- Kidney stones
- Catheters or recent procedures
- Diabetes
- STIs, which can mimic UTI symptoms. See STI symptoms in men.
Why men should get checked
UTIs in men are often linked to an underlying problem. An appropriately registered medical professional will test your urine, prescribe the right antibiotic, and investigate causes if infections recur.
Seek urgent care if you have
- High fever and chills
- Back or side pain
- Vomiting
- Inability to urinate
Recovery and prevention
- Drink enough water.
- Do not hold urine for long periods.
- Urinate after sex.
- Practise good hygiene. See penile hygiene tips.
- Manage blood sugar if you have diabetes.
- Treat prostate symptoms early.
Cranberry?
Cranberry has some evidence for preventing UTIs in women; evidence in men is limited. It does not treat an active infection.
How we can help
Our naturopaths can support recovery and prevention naturally alongside medical treatment, and refer you promptly for testing. See also frequent urination in men.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Do you have pain, swelling, redness or itching in the genital area?
- Have you noticed discharge, sores, a lump or blood in your urine or semen?
- Do you have a fever or feel generally unwell?
- Has this lasted more than a few days, or keep coming back?
- Is it affecting your sex life, sleep or confidence?
A yes to questions two or three, or sudden severe pain, means you should see an appropriately registered medical professional promptly. For recurring or lifestyle-related concerns, a naturopath can help with natural support alongside medical care.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. Urinary infections in men need testing and medical treatment, so we refer you promptly to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our men’s clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
Can men get UTIs?
Yes, although less often than women. Men’s UTIs often have an underlying cause.
What causes UTIs in men?
An enlarged prostate, prostatitis, kidney stones, catheters, diabetes and sometimes STIs.
Can a UTI in men go away on its own?
Men should get UTIs checked and treated, as they may signal another problem.
Is burning when urinating always a UTI?
No. STIs and prostatitis can cause similar symptoms, so testing is important.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Get personalised, natural support from a naturopath. Walk in at our Sandton practice, or book a remote consultation if you live outside Gauteng.
References and further reading
- NHS: Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Mayo Clinic: Prostatitis
- NHS: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
