Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

If you are concerned about urinary tract infections (UTIs), you’re not alone. Many women (1 out of 5) will experience a urinary tract infection at least once in their lives. Many women who have had a UTI will develop recurring urinary tract infections. UTIs are much less common in men than in women.

What Are Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)?

UTIs are infections in the urinary system, including bladder, ureters and urethra. Even though UTIs are very common, they should be taken seriously. Severe cases of urinary tract infections, left untreated, may cause severe kidney infection.

What Are the Symptoms of a UTI?

Burning pain during urination
An urge to urinate when your bladder is nearly empty
Difficulty to control urination
Lower abdominal pain or back pain
Blood in your urine
Fever

Be aware that these symptoms are not always caused by a UTI. Other infections, such as sexually transmitted diseases, burning during urination and frequent urination. Only a health care provider can tell for sure if you have a UTI.

Why Are Women More Likely Than Men to get a UTI?

You may have heard that urinary tract infections affect women more often than men. It’s true — and the reason has to do with biology. A woman’s urethra is much shorter than a man’s, making it easier for bacteria to get into the bladder. In addition, a woman’s urethra is closer to her anus than a man’s is. This makes it easier for bacteria to spread into her urethra and cause an infection.

Is There a Treatment for a UTI?

Antibiotics are usually used as a treatment. Our doctor will decide what kind of antibiotic to prescribe. Sometimes you can buy over- the- counter pain relief medications to relieve mild symptoms, but they will not cure the UTI.

Can I Prevent a UTI?

Yes, if you:

Drink plenty of water on a daily basis
Drink unsweetened cranberry juice. Cranberries contain an acid that helps prevent bacteria from growing
Urinate as soon as you feel the urge, don’t hold it
Try to urinate before sex and immediately after