50% of women will have UTI at least once in their lifetime. That is, according to the US Department of Health. 20% of young women who experience a UTI will experience a recurrence. UTIs are among the top causes of clinic visits worldwide, including Australia. They are painful, inconvenient, and misunderstood, primarily by women.

Understanding Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

This is an infection of the urinary tract caused by excessive bacterial or viral accumulation. UTIs are primarily seen in the bladder, although they can also involve the ureters, urethra, and, in severe cases, the kidney.

UTI symptoms in women include;

  • Frequent urges to go to the loo and pressure in the lower abdomen
  • A burning feeling when urinating
  • Abnormal colouring of urine, to look milky or reddish
  • Fever and shakes
  • Constant fatigue

Blood in the urine (emergency). It is good to educate yourself about UTIs so that you can avoid common but risky myths, know how to prevent UTIs and what to do if you get one. Here are some things you need to know about UTIs;

How Sexual Activity Can Contribute to UTIs

There is a common confusion between Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and UTIs. While STIs are transmitted through sexual intercourse, UTIs can develop on their own. But UTIs can also result from sex because bacteria from the outer genitalia and the anus are carried into the vagina and come into contact with the urethra. For many premenopausal women, this is usually the leading cause of developing UTIs. But UTIs can also come from other factors, including;

  • Incorrect use of hygiene products, such as not changing the pad or tampon as required
  • Birth control hormone imbalance, which can lead to increased growth of bacteria
  • Diarrhea: Watery stool can spread to the genitals, carrying bacteria with it
  • Holding on too long encourages bacteria to grow in the bladder
  • Dehydration leads to infrequent passing of urine, which promotes the growth of bacteria
  • Kidney stones are blocking the urinary tract and promoting bacterial growth

Why Post-Menopausal Women Are at Higher Risk for UTIs

Menopause comes with hormonal changes, which also cause dryness in the vagina. This dry environment is more suitable for bacterial growth.

The Higher UTI Risk in Women Compared to Men

Men also get UTIs, but at a lower rate than women. The US National Kidney Institute says that women are 10 times more at risk than men of getting UTIs. This is because the shorter female urethra facilitates bacterial migration through the urinary tract.

Potential Complications of UTIs, Including Kidney Disease

Delay in seeking treatment for a UTI can lead to more severe health problems, especially kidney complications. The infection can travel up the urinary tract to the kidneys, leading to a life-threatening emergency. It is recommended that you see a doctor immediately if you suspect you have a UTI.

Natural Remedies for Managing UTIs

You can do Urinary Tract Infection treatment for women with home remedies such as;

  • Eating foods with probiotics like yoghurt encourages the growth of 'good' bacteria, which inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. Foods rich in Vitamin C make the urine more acidic, thereby inhibiting bacterial growth.
  • Drinking adequate water, the recommended 6-8 glasses of water. This helps maintain a healthy pH, thereby reducing bacterial growth.
  • Heat treatment: Placing a heat source on the pubic area can help soothe the pain

But it is always recommended to see a doctor and use home remedies as secondary treatments. Here at 13Cure, we offer medical treatment for all kinds of UTIs.

Preventive Measures for Reducing the Risk of UTIs

Women can lower their risks of getting UTIs by;

  • Observing hygiene by washing the genital area with clean water at least once daily
  • Passing urine when the need arises instead of holding
  • Changing sanitary towels and tampons as required
  • Avoiding dirty toilets
  • Avoiding very tight-fitting panties

Educating yourself about UTIs can help you avoid this common ailment and know how to treat it if it develops. Do you have any questions on UTIs? Please get in touch with us to schedule an appointment.