WHAT’S A UTI?

Common signs of a urinary tract infection include:

• A strong and persistent urge to urinate

• Frequently passing very small amounts of urine

• A burning sensation while urinating

• Urine that appears cloudy and/or has a strong smell

• Urine that appears pink, red, or cola-colored (which indicates blood in the urine)

• Pelvic pain, especially near the pubic bone

• Pressure in the lower abdomen or back

• Fatigue and shakiness

• Fever or chills (signs of a more serious infection in the kidneys)

UTIs that develop in certain parts of the urinary tract are also referred to by the following names:

Urethritis (urethra): Symptoms include discharge and burning with urination.  

Cystitis (bladder): This infection often causes frequent, painful urination, sometimes with blood in the urine. Other symptoms include pressure and discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic area.

Pyelonephritis (kidneys): High fever, chills, shaking, nausea, and vomiting are common signs of this type of UTI. Pain may develop in the upper back and side.

UTIs are typically caused by bacteria from the large intestine existing from the anus and entering the urethra (where urine is released from the body). If bacteria do get into the urethra, they can travel through the urinary tract system and develop into an infection.

Women are prone to UTIs for a number of reasons, including:

Anatomy: Because women have shorter urethras than men, the bacteria is able to reach the bladder and kidneys faster, causing higher rates of UTIs.

Genetics: Some women to be naturally predisposed to UTIs due to the shape of their urinary tract.

Hormone changes: Frequent fluctuations in hormones due to women’s menstrual cycles can increase the risk for UTIs.

Other factors which may increase the risk for UTIs include multiple sclerosis, a weakened immune system due to conditions like diabetes, and health issues affecting urine flow, such as kidney stones, stokes, and spinal cord injuries.

To prevent UTIs, women are instructed to wipe from front to back after using the bathroom. Anal and vaginal sex also present additional opportunities for this type of bacteria to be transferred, which is why women are also encouraged to urinate after intercourse to flush bacteria from their urinary tract. Taking a vaginal probiotic like Pro-Fem can also help to maintain healthy bacteria levels and reduce the risk of infection.