Urinary Tract Infection Specialist

What is a urinary tract infection?

Your urinary tract consists of your kidneys, ureters, bladder, and your urethra. A bacterial infection can occur in any of those areas. These infections are most common in your bladder (cystitis) and urethra (urethritis).

The most common symptom of a UTI is a burning sensation during urination. You might also experience:

• Abdominal pain or pressure
• Fever or chills
• Urine that’s dark, cloudy, or smells strange  

Urinary tract infections are very common, and most women will experience at least one UTI during their lifetime. For some, these infections occur again and again.

What causes a urinary tract infection?

Urinary tract infections begin when bacteria enters through your urethra and begin to multiply. Your body is equipped with protections against bacterial infection, but there are times when those defenses fail.

The most common cause of UTI is when bacteria found in your gastrointestinal tract makes its way to your urethra. Because of the realities of female anatomy, the short distance between anus and urethra leaves women more susceptible to UTI than men.

How can I prevent urinary tract infections?

It isn’t possible to prevent every UTI, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. One important consideration is to always clean from front to back after using the restroom. This helps keep bacteria away from your urethra.

Another way to reduce risk is to try and urinate shortly after sexual activity. Urination flushes your urethra, removing bacteria that may have been introduced or transferred during sex.

Additional risk factors for UTI include using spermicide or diaphragms as birth control. Women who are in menopause also face a higher risk because they produce less estrogen, which leads to changes in their urinary tract that increases the likelihood of infection.

How are urinary tract infections treated?

It’s important to treat UTIs to prevent serious health complications, like permanent kidney damage, sepsis, or pregnancy complications. Be sure to schedule an appointment at the earliest sign of an infection.

The most common treatment approach is a course of antibiotics. There are various types of antibiotics to choose from, and your specialist at Elite OB/GYN recommends medication that’s right for your current infection and your overall health.

If you suffer from frequent UTIs, you may benefit from a longer course of low-dose antibiotics, single dose treatment after sexual activity, or perhaps vaginal estrogen therapy if you’re already past menopause.

To find fast relief from urinary tract infections, book a visit with Elite OB/GYN at your earliest convenience.