Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

What Causes Urinary Tract Infections?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are caused by bacteria entering the urethra. Since the opening to the urethra is so close to the anus, bacteria from the large intestine, such as E. coli, are in the perfect position to invade the urethra. From there, they can travel into the bladder and attach to its walls and grow there, causing a bladder infection. Rarely, the bacteria can move to the kidneys and cause a more serious infection. Women are more prone than men to develop UTIs because they have shorter urethras allowing bacteria easier access to the bladder. Having sex can promote the introduction of bacteria into the urinary tract.

What Are Symptoms of UTIs?

Urinary tract infections are responsible for a variety of painful or uncomfortable symptoms. Women should beware of the following symptoms and seek diagnosis and treatment if they occur.

• A burning feeling when you urinate
• A frequent or intense urge to urinate, even though little comes out when you do
• Pain or pressure in your back or lower abdomen
• Cloudy, dark, bloody, or strange-smelling urine
• Fever or chills in association with the above symptoms (a sign the infection may have reached your kidneys)

What Is Chronic Cystitis?

Chronic cystitis is recurrent bladder infections which are typically a complication of a UTI. These are more common in menopause when estrogen levels drop, but they can occur at any age.  If you have had more than 2 UTIs in 6 months or 3 in 12 months, you have chronic cystitis and should see a specialist.

How Are UTIs Treated?

If you suspect you have a urinary tract infection or experience any of the symptoms listed above, or especially if these are reoccurring (chronic cystitis), make an appointment at Southeast Urogyn for assessment and treatment. You'll be asked to give a urine sample, which will be tested for the presence of UTI-causing bacteria. If you have a UTI, the doctor will prescribe an antibiotic to clear the infection. Make sure to finish the prescribed cycle of medicine completely, even if you start to feel better. It is also important to drink lots of water to help flush the bacteria from your system. The doctor may prescribe medication to ease any pain and may suggest using a heating pad. In some cases, an estrogen cream may be prescribed if the issue stems from the decreasing estrogen levels associated with menopause. Women who suffer from regular UTIs or chronic cystitis may also be recommended to take a low dose antibiotic nightly for a period of time to prevent the infections.  Use of cranberry therapy may help reduce the risk of recurrence but other things such as wiping from front to back after using the bathroom, have been shown to have little effect on infections.