UTIs are more than just an annoyance–and if you’ve had one, you know firsthand how painful and uncomfortable they can be. In fact, more than 50% of women will have at least one UTI during their lifetime, and many deal with the frustrations of recurring infections.1
Whether it's your first UTI or your first this year, this article equips you with the knowledge to take control of your urinary health. Below, we’ll break down the facts about UTIs while providing tips to address the root issues.
What *Actually* Is A UTI?
A urinary tract infection (or a UTI) is an infection affecting any part of the urinary system, composed of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most infections occur in the urethra and bladder.2
Bacteria is the most common cause, specifically Escherichia coli (aka E. coli) which is usually found in the gastrointestinal tract but can be transmitted to the urinary tract due to proximity to and contamination from the anus.2
Other bacteria and (less commonly) yeast can also cause infections if introduced to the urinary tract.
What Risk Factors and Symptoms Should I Be Aware Of?
There are several influences that can impact the likelihood of infection.3 Risk factors that might increase the likelihood of developing a UTI include:
- Female anatomy. We know, right? The truth is that women have shorter urethras closer to the rectum, allowing bacteria to enter the tract more easily. Pregnancy, certain types of birth control, and menopause can also increase the risk for women.
- Past or recent UTIs. As “many as 4 in 10 women who get a UTI will get another within six months.” 2
- Sexual activity, especially recent activity or activity with a new sexual partner.
- Changes to the bacterial balance of the vagina.
- Age. Children and elderly adults are more susceptible to UTIs.
- A weakened immune system.
UTIs don’t always cause symptoms, but here are some common symptoms to look out for:
- Feeling the need to urinate (despite an empty bladder)
- Pain or burning when urinating
- Frequent urination
- Urine that looks cloudy or bloody (which might be red, bright pink, or brown)
- Strong-smelling urine
- Pressure or cramping in the groin, lower abdomen, or pelvis
How Can I Prevent UTIs?
The truth of the matter is that if you think you have a UTI, you are prone to UTIs or you are positive you have one–you need to consult your trusted healthcare provider. UTIs can be treated and even potentially prevented from occurring in the first place, but only under the guidance and direction of your doctor.
With that in mind, there are many lifestyle habits that can help support your urinary tract health. Here are our top tips:
- Drink up. Water can flush out unwanted bacteria from your urethra. Additionally, cranberry juice is popular as cranberries are believed to help prevent bacteria from attaching to cells in the wall of the urinary tract.
- Supplement your support system. Your body relies on what you put in it to keep in its best operational shape, and supplements can be an easy and excellent way to support it. Our daily URO Urinary Tract Capsules feature clinically-tested Pacran® to promote optimal urinary tract health & comfort.*
- Go when you need to go. It’s ideal to urinate every 3-4 hours, so don’t “hold it” because the longer urine sits in your bladder, the longer bacteria have to grow. Additionally, urinate and fully empty your bladder after sex or sexual activity.
- Wipe from front to back. Whether it's “number 1” or “number 2”, this is always the correct way to wipe and ensure you are not bringing any bacteria toward the vagina or urethra.
- Consider your contraceptive methods with your doctor. Diaphragms, unlubricated condoms, and spermicidal condoms can contribute to bacterial growth. Have an open conversation about what methods you’re currently using and their impacts on the vagina.
- Maintain a routine. Keeping your vagina and anal areas clean can prevent any bacteria from hanging around.
- Try underwear with a cotton crotch. This may be your best bet for avoiding a moist environment in which bacteria thrives. We also recommend avoiding tight-fitting pants and changing out of wet garments ASAP.
How Can I Treat UTIs?
What happens once you get an infection? Again, if you’re concerned that you may have a UTI, consult your doctor about your symptoms.
When treated quickly and properly, UTIs rarely lead to complications. But if left untreated, a UTI in the bladder or urethra can spread to the kidneys where it can cause damage to your urinary tract, permanent kidney damage, or even sepsis, a potentially life-threatening complication of infection.
Your doctor will test for a UTI; if they determine you have an infection they will most likely prescribe you an antibiotic that can be taken at home to alleviate your symptoms and address the root cause. Antibiotics can sometimes cause side effects (including yeast infections), so share any concerns and relevant health history with your doctor. Your doctor may also prescribe fluconazole or Diflucan to help treat a yeast infection caused by antibiotics.
As noted above, previous UTIs can unfortunately increase your risk for additional infections. If you have recurrent UTIs (two UTIs within six months or three within a year) you should consult your doctor to help build a personalized treatment plan.
There are also several ways to alleviate the symptoms of a UTI at home in combination with professional medical care:
- Drink lots of water
- Avoid beverages that may irritate your bladder or increase urinary frequency such as coffee, alcohol, carbonated drinks, or citrus juices
- Avoid spicy foods, acidic fruits, vinegar, and refined sugar
- Apply a heating pad or warm compress to your pelvis, as heat increases blood flow and reduces cramping and pressure
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers
- Try wearing those big, comfy sweatpants, as tight clothing can rub against your urethra and further irritate the inflamed area
Stay Prepared
UTIs may seem scary, but with the information above you can proactively defend yourself and be prepared if an infection disrupts your day.
A note on sex and gender: Sex and gender exist on spectrums, and this article uses terms like “male” or “female” to refer to sex assigned at birth. Learn more.
