Urinary tract infection is one of the most common diseases in women. Learn about the causes, treatment and prevention methods.
The urinary tract in the human body consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra, which work to remove salts and waste from the body, and all of these organs may be exposed to inflammation. Learn about urinary tract infections in women.
Urinary tract infection in women
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is an infection that may affect any organ of the urinary tract. Most urinary infections are caused by bacteria called Escherichia coli (E.Coli). These bacteria live in the intestines, especially the rectum.
There are several names for urinary infections, such as cystitis, urethritis, and kidney infection, which is the most dangerous.
Women of childbearing age are considered the most vulnerable to urinary tract infections, as their urethra is shorter than that of men, and the opening of the urethra is close to the genital area, which makes it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder and cause a urinary tract infection.
It is not surprising to know that about 40% of women experience a urinary tract infection at least once in their lives. Married women, during pregnancy, and after surgery are the most vulnerable to infections.
My Player placeholder
Symptoms of urinary tract infection in women
If you have a urinary tract infection, you may feel the following
Pain in the lower abdomen or lower back.
Burning during urination.
Frequently going to the bathroom and feeling an urgent need to go to the bathroom with small amounts of urine.
Getting up during the night to urinate.
Change in color and smell of urine.
The presence of blood in the urine.
High temperatures accompanied by nausea and chills.
Causes of recurrent urinary tract infections in women
Often there is no clear cause for recurrence of infections. But the reason may be
The body has defenses that protect it from infection, and any change that may occur to the body increases the possibility of infection. For example, if there are problems with the bladder or kidneys (the presence of congenital problems or the presence of stones), this increases the chances of exposure to a urinary tract infection.
Sexual intercourse is considered one of the main factors causing urine infections.
Women''s bodies are under the influence of the hormone estrogen, and menopause leads to a decrease in this hormone, which leads to weakness and dryness in the reproductive system and increases the possibility of urinary infections.
Pregnancy increases the possibility of recurring infections due to changes that occur in the urinary tract throughout pregnancy and childbirth.
Diagnosis of urinary tract infection in women
The doctor may order several tests to diagnose a urinary tract infection in women, such as
A normal urine test shows white blood cells, which are evidence of inflammation.
Urine culture. The result usually appears after three days and shows the type of bacteria and the appropriate antibiotic.
The doctor may request other tests, especially if there are recurring infections, such as an ultrasound/ultrasound of the kidneys and ureters, to detect whether there is enlargement and retention of urine, which may indicate the presence of stones.
A cystoscope is an endoscope that is ed into the bladder to see the inside of the bladder, especially if there is blood in the urine.
The doctor may request a CT scan to check on the kidneys and ureters and to confirm or deny the presence of stones.
Treatment of urinary tract infection in women
The doctor treats urinary tract infections in women as follows
In the case of simple cystitis, it is recommended to take antibiotics for 3-5 days.
If there is a bladder infection due to pregnancy or diabetes, it is recommended to take antibiotics for 7-14 days.
It is important to complete the antibiotic even if you feel better, because not completing the antibiotic leads to the infection returning and often stronger.
It is important to consult a doctor if you do not feel better 24 hours after starting the antibiotic, if there is blood in your urine, or if there is a high temperature or pain in the flank or back.
If the infection recurs, it is best to take treatment for the infection and then take a daily preventive dose for several weeks.
Urinary tract infections are painful and uncomfortable but their treatment is often successful and effective.
Ways to prevent urinary tract infections in women
Urinary tract infections can be prevented by doing the following
Drink water. Drinking 2-3 liters per day helps protect against infections.
Cherry juice and vitamin C increase urine acidity and reduce bacterial growth.
Go to the bathroom to urinate regularly and as soon as you feel the need to urinate and do not hold back your urine.
When urinating, dry from front to back.
Avoid substances that may cause skin irritation, such as using perfumed substances and vaginal douches.
Going to the bathroom before and after intercourse to urinate.
Regulating blood sugar for people with diabetes.
