Get tested for a UTI - sex is not the only cause of UTIs, though it can be common. Anything that could get bacteria near your urethra (including touching the area with hands that haven't been washed recently) could theoretically cause one. The only UTI I've had, the main symptom was just urinating with annoying frequency like you're describing. It's important to only take antibiotics for the specific infection they're prescribed for; if your doctor has diagnosed you with a UTI and told you to take antibiotics, take them. If the antibiotics are just left over from a previous ailment, do not take them and instead see your doctor. (Your doctor will most likely test your urine for bacteria and other signs of infections/health issues.)
The skin irritation could also be a mild yeast infection, which your doctor can diagnose and prescribe an oral medication for (in my experience, the over-the-counter treatments can be quite irritating in and of themselves, and can sometimes make the skin irritation worse even though they help with the actual yeast infection).
Peeing frequently can also be a sign of other health problems, including diabetes. Even if it's only a UTI, if it goes untreated it can eventually affect your kidneys and cause some major damage to your body. I know you said it's not that irritating of a problem right now, but it's really better to be safe than sorry. You'll also feel better a lot faster if you treat the actual problem, instead of guessing and potentially using a treatment that won't be effective against your particular problem.
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Date: 2011-01-19 03:51 am (UTC)The skin irritation could also be a mild yeast infection, which your doctor can diagnose and prescribe an oral medication for (in my experience, the over-the-counter treatments can be quite irritating in and of themselves, and can sometimes make the skin irritation worse even though they help with the actual yeast infection).
Peeing frequently can also be a sign of other health problems, including diabetes. Even if it's only a UTI, if it goes untreated it can eventually affect your kidneys and cause some major damage to your body. I know you said it's not that irritating of a problem right now, but it's really better to be safe than sorry. You'll also feel better a lot faster if you treat the actual problem, instead of guessing and potentially using a treatment that won't be effective against your particular problem.
Good luck, and I hope you feel better soon!