If you are experiencing a burning or stinging sensation when you pee, a dull ache in your lower back or see blood in your pee, you might have a urinary tract infection. Urinary tract infections are a bummer, to say the least. Read on and find out how to prevent and treat them.
As the name suggests, UTI is an illness caused by bacterial infection of the urinary tract. Most cases of UTIs affect the lower urinary tract, that is, the bladder and urethra, while the less common but severe cases affect the upper urinary tract, that is, the kidneys and ureters. A cystitis is a UTI that affects the bladder, a Urethritis affects the urethra, while a pyelonephritis affects the kidneys.
Women are at a particularly high risk of getting urinary tract infections. In fact, research shows that 1 in 2 women will suffer from a UTI in their lifetime, with many experiencing repeated infections through the years. Due to decreased levels of estrogen and a general decline in immunity, postmenopausal women are at an even higher risk of getting urinary tract infections.
Why are women at a higher risk of UTIs? Anatomy. Women’s urethras are shorter, making it easier for bad bacteria to get into the body and travel into the bladder and kidneys. Whether you have yet to experience a UTI, are undergoing your first or have had repeated infections, this is a common problem that affects most women.
How Do You Know?
To spot a UTI and stop it in its tracks before it wreaks more havoc in your urinary tract, be on the lookout for these common symptoms.
- A burning or stinging sensation when you pee.
- Frequent and intense need to pee, even though you only pee a little when you do.
- A dull aching or pressure in your lower back or abdomen.
- Cloudy, dark, bloody or strange-smelling pee.
- Feeling tired or shaky.
- Fever or chill.
When To See a Doctor.
If you are experiencing one or a combination of the symptoms listed above, don’t wait around. Rush to the nearest clinic and consult a physician. Starting treatment as soon as you can will prevent infections from spreading to other parts of the urinary tract.
At the clinic or hospital, the doctor will ask for a urine sample for testing. If the test is positive, the doctor will prescribe a course of antibiotics, and you should feel relief as soon as the medicine kicks in. The infection should clear in a day or two.
While going for over-the-counter medication can also work, it is highly discouraged. Having a proper test eliminates the possibility of other infections, such as yeast infections, which can also mimic UTI symptoms.
Also, home remedies like cranberry juice, cranberry concentrate tablets, and lingonberry reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs by 10%-20%. However, they can’t offer treatment once the infection has started.
Why Do UTIs Reoccur?
Unfortunately, your first UTI might not be your last. Recurring UTIs are common due to various reasons. If you don’t finish your prescribed antibiotic regimen, it can allow lingering bacteria to grow and restart an infection. Therefore, be sure to finish your prescribed dose, even if you start feeling better.
Is There a Link Between UTIS And Birth Control?
Some form of birth control, such as spermicide, condoms and diaphragms, can irritate the skin around the vagina and urethra, making it easier for bacteria to invade. Diaphragms can also decrease urine flow and make it harder to fully empty your bladder, providing an environment for bacteria to flourish. If you suffer from recurring UTIs, consider discussing other birth control options with your doctor.
What Has Sex Got to Do with It?
UTIs are not sexually transmitted. However, sex can play a part in introducing the bacteria into the urethra. Research shows that sexually active women are more likely to get UTIs than women who are not sexually active.
One study found that women who had engaged in sex one day during the study had a 37% risk of getting a UTI, and those who had engaged in sex for five days during the study were almost five times more likely to get an infection than those who hadn’t had sex.
To reduce your risk, pee right before and after romping up the bed to flush out bacteria. To take it a step further, you can use wet wipes to clean your vaginal and rectal area.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure.
As little girls, women are taught to wipe from front to back after using the bathroom because it prevents vaginal and urinary tract infections. Other tips which can help prevent UTIs include. Drinking plenty of water every day to flush out bacteria from the system, wearing cotton panties to discourage bacterial growth and urinating often and when the urge arises. ♥
Mourine Warui is a media and communication expert and seasoned writer. Her goal is to empower and offer solutions to everyday girl’s problems while provoking candid and authentic conversations. Other goals are to provide inspiration and entertainment to readers through creative, thought-provoking and edgy stories.
