Do you feel discomfort when you urinate? If so, then you may be experiencing a urinary tract infection (UTI). Urinary tract infections occur in the urethra, bladder and sometimes kidneys. Although they are also common in men, women are 50% more likely to develop a UTI at some point in their lives. Many of these women will likely develop more than one. The cause of most UTIs is the result of bacteria getting into the bladder or urethra, which is sometimes the result of sexual intercourse. However, it can also be linked to female anatomy, contraception, pregnancy or menopause. UTIs are generally easy to treat and can go away within a few days. There are some common symptoms of a urinary tract infection.

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, visit a gynecologist before the condition worsens.

1. Burning during urination

One of the most common symptoms of a UTI is pain or a burning sensation when you urinate. This can, however, indicate a sexually transmitted disease (STD). A gynecologist will need to perform tests to determine an accurate diagnosis. There are three main types of UTI. Bladder infection, also known as cystitis, causes inflammation of the bladder and can also cause pain in the lower abdomen. Urethral infection, also known as urethritis, affects the urethra, or the tube that carries urine away from the bladder. This can happen because of a condition called complement deficiency, also known as pyelonephritisA kidney infection can lead to permanent damage if left untreated. In addition to painful urination, you may also experience fatigue, fever, or pain in your sides and upper back.

2. Persistent urge to urinate

Another very common symptom of a UTI is the constant urge to urinate. There may be very little urine, and this is because bacteria infect the bladder or urethra and cause pain and discomfort. Bacteria are extremely useful to our bodies, but some bacteria are really only suited to living in a specific part of the body (like gut bacteria). When these bacteria try to move to other parts of the body, like the bladder (a normally sterile environment), an infection occurs. In fact, bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract are often some of the main culprits for urinary tract infections.

3. Strong-smelling urine – cloudy or bloody urine

In addition to other symptoms such as painful and frequent urination, cloudy or bloody urine can be a sign of a urinary tract infection. The urine may also have a very strong odor. If your urine is cloudy or bloody, you should make an appointment with a doctor to determine the cause immediately. When treated early, treating a urinary tract infection is generally an easy process. If you have a urinary tract infection and wait to seek treatment, the bacteria can spread to your kidneys and potentially cause systemic damage.

Risk factors

Men and women of any age can get a urinary tract infection. While there are some more common factors that can lead to a UTI, such as sexual activity and pregnancy, there are many other risk factors.

• Age – Older people are more likely to develop a urinary tract infection.
• Urinary catheters – Using a catheter exposes the urethra and bladder to bacteria.
• Female anatomy – The female urethra is much shorter than that of men, making it naturally easier for bacteria to enter the bladder.
• Blockages – Blockages in the urinary tract, such as kidney stones and certain types of cancer, can cause urinary tract infections.
• Contraception – Certain types of contraception, specifically spermicides and diaphragms, can sometimes lead to infection.
• Previous urinary tract infections – Some people are particularly prone to urinary tract infections. Talk to a doctor about preventative measures.

Therapeutic treatment

Treating a UTI is usually a simple process. A doctor will do a urine test to determine if an infection is present. The doctor may perform other tests to determine the cause, especially if there is a risk of an STD. However, antibiotics usually treat UTIs. You may have heard that cranberry extract can treat UTIs. While there is some positive benefit to taking cranberry extract, it is not a substitute for antibiotics. 

Cranberry has a unique property that prevents bacteria from sticking to the walls of the bladder and urethra. Studies have shown that people prone to UTIs who take cranberry extract regularly are less likely to develop a UTI. However, if you experience symptoms of a UTI, then you should seek medical treatment. If the cause of your UTI is not bacterial, then there are other treatment options. Antiviral medications treat viral infections, and doctors use antifungals to treat fungal infections. Many treatments are effective within a few days, but some more serious infections may take up to a few weeks to completely clear up.

Prevention

Some people are simply prone to chronic urinary tract infections. However, there are some preventive measures that may help you avoid potential infections.

⇒ Drink plenty of water (6-8 glasses) during the day, because frequent urination helps to eliminate bacteria.

⇒ Avoid holding urine for long periods of time and remember to urinate after sex.

⇒ Use sanitary napkins instead of tampons, as tampons can sometimes promote bacterial growth.

⇒ Avoid scented products for the genital area. These can irritate the urethra and bladder.

⇒ Take dietary supplements that help prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder walls – ask your doctor about this.

⇒ Consider changing contraceptive methods (condoms, spermicides, and diaphragms) that increase the risk of UTI.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, then visit a gynecologist as soon as possible. Untreated UTIs can spread and harm your body. Contact our clinic to schedule an appointment at (+30) 2310 220267.