The burning sensation, lower belly pain, cloudy, odorous, blood-tinged urine, and, let's not forget, the frequent and urgent need to empty your bladder, only to barely be able to produce any urine. If you've had a urinary tract infection (UTI), you know these symptoms all too well and have probably tried just about anything to ease the symptoms and keep the discomfort from coming back.

Unfortunately, recurrent urinary tract infections are almost as common as the infection itself. There are many misconceptions about UTIs and what steps you should take to alleviate the pain and keep them from recurring.

In this article:

 What Is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that affects the urinary system, which includes the bladder, urethra, ureters, and kidneys.

These painful infections happen when bacteria somehow enters the urinary tract, most typically from the genital area. This explains why women are more prone to UTIs than men, as the female anatomy makes it easier for these harmful bacteria to sneak in and cause an infection.

According to the Urology Care Foundation, UTIs are the second most common type of bodily infection, with at least 10 in 25 women and 3 in 25 men experiencing a UTI at least once in their lifetime. And unfortunately, many experience recurring UTIs throughout their lifetime. In fact, according to research, approximately 25% to 30% of women who have experienced a urinary tract infection (UTI) will experience a recurrence of the infection within six months. Talk about annoying!!

UTIs most commonly occur in the bladder (cystitis), but not all urinary tract infections are bladder infections. UTIs can also occur only in the urethra (urethritis) or in the kidneys (pyelonephritis.) Recurring UTI can also be referred to as chronic UTI, persistent UTI, or frequent UTI.

Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infections

Each type of UTI generally causes the same symptoms, which can include:

  • The urge to urinate frequently and urgently, but often not producing much urine.
  • A burning sensation when urinating.
  • Feeling that the bladder is still full after urinating.
  • Lower stomach pain above the pubic bone.
  • Cloudy, bloody and/or smelly urine.

A UTI in the kidneys, which is the most serious type of UTI, typically brings about additional symptoms, which can include:

  • Chills
  • Fever
  • Vomiting
  • Lower belly pain
  • Pain in the lower back

In most cases, a UTI isn't serious, but there can be exceptions. One is if the UTI is in the kidneys. If you believe you have a kidney infection, you should seek prompt medical treatment. If not treated, an infection in the kidneys can cause permanent kidney damage or spread to the bloodstream.

Another instance where UTIs can become serious is if they keep coming back, regardless of where in the urinary tract the infection occurs.

Common Causes of a UTI

While most people know the basics, there are many factors that can lead to UTIs, some of which might surprise you. Below, we've broken down the most common reasons for UTIs and highlighted a few less common causes that are still worth knowing about.

The Most Common Reasons UTIs Happen

The most common cause of UTIs is bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is naturally found in the digestive tract. When these bacteria travel from the anus to the urethra, they can enter the bladder and cause an infection. Other bacteria, such as Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus saprophyticus, can also be culprits.

While a urinary tract infection is not considered an STI, sex can introduce bacteria into the urethra, increasing the risk of infection. There is even a name for UTIs that are believed to be triggered by sexual activity— "honeymoon cystitis."

Frequent intercourse, new sexual partners, and lack of lubrication can all make the urinary tract more vulnerable to bacteria.

Women are naturally at higher risk of UTIs because of their anatomy. The urethra is shorter in women, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. Additionally, the proximity of the urethra to the anus and vagina increases the chances of bacterial transfer.

Improper hygiene, such as wiping from back to front after using the bathroom (which we will cover in-depth a little further down), can introduce bacteria to the urethra.

Not drinking enough fluids reduces urination frequency, which prevents bacteria from being flushed out of the urinary tract. Concentrated urine can also irritate the bladder lining, making it more susceptible to infection.

During and after menopause, a decline in estrogen leads to thinning of the vaginal lining and urethral tissues. This weakens the natural barrier that prevents bacteria from entering the urinary tract. Reduced levels of protective vaginal lactobacilli are also common during hormonal changes and can contribute to increased infection risk.

Spermicides can disrupt the natural vaginal flora, making it easier for bacteria to thrive. Diaphragms can also put pressure on the urethra, preventing the bladder from emptying completely, which creates an environment where bacteria can grow.

When the bladder doesn't fully empty, bacteria have more time to multiply. This is often a concern for pregnant women, people with neurogenic bladder, and older adults with weakened bladder muscles.

Pregnancy introduces hormonal changes that relax the bladder muscles and slow urine flow, giving bacteria a chance to multiply. Additionally, the growing uterus can put pressure on the bladder, making it difficult to fully empty.

Urinary catheters provide a direct pathway for bacteria to enter the bladder, leading to catheter-associated UTIs (CAUTIs). This is especially common in hospitalized patients or those with mobility issues.

Diabetes weakens the immune system and increases glucose levels in the urine, creating an environment where bacteria thrive. People with poorly controlled diabetes are at higher risk of developing UTIs.

Avoid using scented products like sprays, douches, and powders that are not gynecologist approved. These products can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and pH levels, making the urinary tract more susceptible to infections.

Less Common Causes of UTIs

While the reasons above account for most UTIs, there are some less common causes that may not be as widely recognized.

These include:

  • Kidney or Bladder Stones
  • Urinary Tract Abnormalities
  • Prolonged Use of Antibiotics
  • Pelvic Organ Prolapse
  • Neurological Disorders
  • Bladder Cancer
  • IUD Insertion
  • Fistulas
  • Radiation Therapy or Chemotherapy
  • Anal Sex Without Proper Hygiene
  • Misuse and Improper Cleaning of Menstrual Cups
  • Foreign Objects in the Vaginal Canal (forgotten tampons, contraceptive devices, etc.)

Even though these causes are less common, they can still result in recurring or complicated UTIs. If you experience frequent infections despite following basic preventive measures, it may be worth looking into these lesser-known possibilities.

The Reason Why UTIs Tend to Recur

It isn't fully known why some people are more apt to get UTIs than others. There are several theories, one being genetics. Some doctors believe certain genetic subtypes are more prone to UTIs than others, meaning if your mom or sister gets recurring UTIs, you likely have a genetic predisposition to UTIs as well.

Another reason you could get recurring UTIs is an underlying medical issue. You could be experiencing frequent UTIs because of an immune disorder that makes you more prone to infection, such as diabetes, which can create extra sugar in the urine that breeds bacteria. An anatomical issue can prevent you from fully emptying your bladder when you pee, which could lead to bacteria stagnating in your bladder or even kidney stones. If you are experiencing two or more UTIs a year, you should talk to your primary care provider or OBGYN.

Why Is It Important to Wipe from Front to Back After Using the Bathroom?

Wiping from front to back is essential for maintaining good urinary health, especially for women. Because the urethra is shorter and closer to both the vagina and anus, making it more vulnerable to bacterial contamination.

Preventing Infections

When you wipe from back to front, you run a higher risk of transferring bacteria from the anal region to the urinary tract. This can lead to infections like urinary tract infections (UTIs) and even more severe conditions if the bacteria spread further.

Keeping Things Clean

Good hygiene means keeping the genital area clean and dry. Make sure you're fully clean before pulling up your underwear to avoid transferring bacteria to your clothes, which can lead to irritation or infections as you go about your day.

A Few Tips:

  • Use Unscented Wipes: They're gentler on sensitive skin and reduce the risk of irritation.
  • Stay Dry: Pat the area dry with toilet paper to prevent moisture, which can encourage bacterial growth.

Fact or Fiction: Common UTI Myths and Truths

When it comes to urinary tract infections (UTIs), there's no shortage of old wives' tales and misconceptions floating around. From myths about the causes of UTIs to beliefs about preventing or treating them, it can be tough to separate fact from fiction.

With UTIs being such a common condition, having accurate information at your fingertips is important. In this section, we'll explore some of the most prevalent myths and truths about UTIs, so you can stay informed and make the best decisions for your health.

Sorry fellas, this is a myth. UTIs are less common in men than women but can still occur. A man is less likely to get a UTI because the male urethra is longer, making it more difficult for bacteria to reach the bladder and cause an infection.

However, certain factors can increase the risk of UTIs in men, such as an enlarged prostate or a history of urinary tract abnormalities. Additionally, when a UTI develops in men, it is often considered more complicated and likely to spread to the kidneys and upper urinary tract.

Unfortunately, this is true. Frequent sexual intercourse is one of the greatest risk factors for recurrent UTIs, especially if you are a woman. During sexual intercourse, friction and pressure can force bacteria in or around the genital area toward the urethra and into the bladder and urinary tract. From there, it populates, and you end up with an infection.

Having sex does not guarantee you will get a UTI, and a UTI is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or contagious condition. However, you can pass the bacteria that causes a UTI between partners.

Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract, usually through your urethra, which is very close to your vaginal opening. So, it would make sense that peeing immediately after sex may help to flush bacteria out of the urethra, thereby helping to prevent a UTI.

While it certainly can't hurt to pee after sex, especially if you are prone to UTIs, no concrete medical research shows that you need to do so right after sex. Whether urination happens 30 seconds or an hour after you have sex doesn't seem to make a difference.

This is true! Studies have shown that regularly consuming probiotic-rich foods can reduce the risk of UTIs, particularly in women. Foods, such as some unsweetened yogurts, contain live cultures of beneficial bacteria, including lactobacillus, which can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the urinary tract.

Incorporating probiotic foods like yogurt into your diet can be a simple and tasty way to promote urinary tract health and reduce the risk of UTIs. Just don't put these foods into your vagina. Unfortunately, putting foods and other products into the vagina is a disturbing and dangerous trend. DON'T put yogurt anywhere but in your mouth.

Unfortunately, UTIs can be yet another downfall of life after menopause. As women age and go through menopause, the production of estrogen, a hormone that helps keep the urinary tract healthy, decreases. Estrogen helps maintain the thickness and elasticity of the lining of the urinary tract. When estrogen levels decline, the lining becomes thinner and more vulnerable to bacterial infections.

Additionally, the muscles and tissues of the urinary tract weaken over time, making it harder to fully empty the bladder and increasing the risk of bacteria growth. The combination of these factors can make postmenopausal women more susceptible to UTIs.

Some contraceptives can indeed increase your risk of UTIs. If you use spermicide as birth control, this could be the culprit of your UTIs. Spermicides could potentially kill off beneficial bacteria in the vagina, making it easier for E. coli (the bacterium that often causes UTIs) to move in.

Using a diaphragm can also up your odds of UTIs. Diaphragms put pressure on the urethra, making it harder to fully empty your bladder. If urine doesn't empty, it is more likely to grow bacteria.

If you use one of these methods for pregnancy prevention, you might want to consider a different method of birth control.

Drinking cranberry juice is one of the most well-known natural remedies for UTIs. Cranberries are believed to help ward off UTIs by helping prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract. There is very little evidence that cranberry juice can actually cure a UTI. Still, some studies suggest it can lower your risk for infection.

So, while cranberry juice is not a cure, drinking a couple of glasses or snacking on whole or dried fruit might be worth trying if you frequently get UTIs. Just make sure you are consuming unsweetened cranberries and cranberry juice without added sugars. Added sugars may only make your urinary tract infection worse.

Holding your urine for long periods does not directly cause a UTI, but it can increase the risk of developing a urinary tract infection. This is because holding your urine for too long can cause bacteria to multiply in the bladder.

Additionally, holding urine for long periods can weaken the bladder muscles and make it more difficult to completely empty your bladder when you urinate, which can also increase the risk of a UTI. Urinating regularly is vital to prevent other bladder and urinary tract problems. Adults should generally urinate every 3-4 hours or more frequently if needed.

Drinking lots of water can help flush bacteria out of your bladder faster. According to the Mayo Clinic, 50 percent of UTIs can be treated by drinking enough fluid alone.

Additionally, drinking water can dilute your urine, which can help with the burning and pain during a UTI.

Wearing cotton underwear is beneficial for preventing UTIs. Cotton is a breathable fabric that allows for better air circulation and helps keep the genital area dry. This reduces the likelihood of bacterial growth and infections. In contrast, synthetic fabrics can trap moisture and heat, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. For optimal urinary tract health, choose cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting or non-breathable options.

No, a refrigerator itself cannot cause a UTI… but there could be a connection.

The reason people even started asking if a refrigerator could cause a UTI is because a couple of years ago there was a reported spike in UTIs, along with concerns that UTIs have become more dangerous due to bacteria developing resistance to common antibiotics.

What does this have to do with a refrigerator? A 2023 study suggested that E. coli-contaminated meat may be responsible for nearly half a million UTIs in the United States each year. When news outlets picked up this information, many ran with attention-grabbing, clickbait headlines that implied your refrigerator could be the culprit behind rising UTI rates.

In reality, UTIs aren't increasing because of your fridge, but improperly stored or contaminated meat inside it could be putting you at a higher risk. This is a reminder to handle and cook meat properly to avoid bacterial infections that could potentially lead to UTIs.

How to Get Relief From UTI Symptoms

UTIs can cause many symptoms, including pain or burning during urination, frequent urination, and the urge to urinate even when the bladder is empty.

Here are some ways to relieve the painful and annoying symptoms of a UTI:

  • Drink plenty of water: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract, reducing the severity of UTI symptoms.
  • Take over-the-counter pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and discomfort caused by UTIs.
  • Apply a heating pad: Applying a heating pad to the lower abdomen can help relieve the pain and discomfort associated with UTIs.
  • Use urinary tract analgesics: Urinary tract analgesics such as phenazopyridine can help relieve the pain, burning, and urgency associated with UTIs.
  • Avoid irritants: Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and acidic foods can help reduce the severity of UTI symptoms. These irritants can build up in the urine, making urinating even more painful while you have a UTI.

Best Ways to Treat a UTI

In rare cases, a UTI can go away on its own, but it is relatively uncommon and depends on several factors, such as the severity of the infection and the person's overall health.

Antibiotics

If you are looking for the quickest way to treat a UTI, it's best to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Chances are, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to help clear the bacterial infection and prevent the infection from spreading to the kidneys.

A week of antibiotics typically clears things up for the vast majority of simple UTIs. For those with a more severe UTI or recurring UTIs, your doctor may also prescribe long-term, low-dose antibiotics for a more extended period after symptoms subside. Your doctor may also recommend that you take antibiotics after each time you have intercourse.

Natural Remedies

Additionally, many doctors suggest cleansing the bladder and supporting a healthy inflammatory response by supplementing with natural vitamins and herbs. Turmeric, green tea, cranberry, and D-mannose are the most commonly used natural UTI remedies with strong scientific backing.

According to some studies, drinking cranberry juice daily can help minimize recurrences among those who have chronic UTIs, and numerous studies show D-mannose (a natural sugar found in plants and berries) reduced UTI symptoms in women with an active infection, lessened the severity of symptoms, and was even more effective than antibiotics for preventing additional infections.

The most active component in turmeric, curcumin, is known for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Similarly, supplemental green tea is also said to potentially protect against urinary tract inflammation. Green tea also has antibacterial properties that make it remarkably effective against UTIs.

However, avoid drinking caffeinated green tea if you have an active UTI infection, as it can further irritate the bladder. Opt for decaffeinated green tea or caffeine-free supplements.

Diagnosing A Chronic Urinary Tract Infection: What to Expect

Chronic UTIs can be stubborn and frustrating, but getting the right diagnosis is key to effective treatment. Here's how doctors figure out what's going on with these recurring infections:

Urine Sample Tests
The first thing your doctor will likely do is analyze a urine sample:

  • Microscopic Examination: They'll look at the sample under a microscope to check for bacteria, white blood cells, and other signs of infection.
  • Urine Culture: The sample is placed in a culture medium to see if any bacteria grow. This can take 1-3 days and helps identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and the best antibiotics to use.

Imaging Tests
If there's a concern that the infection has spread to the kidneys or if something more serious is suspected, your doctor may order imaging tests:

  • X-rays: These help spot any structural issues or kidney stones that might be causing the infections.
  • Kidney Scans: More detailed images from an ultrasound or CT scan can provide further insights, especially regarding any potential kidney damage.

Specialized Exams
For ongoing or recurrent infections, more in-depth procedures might be needed:

  • Cystoscopy: In this procedure, a doctor uses a cystoscope (a thin tube with a camera) to look inside the urethra and bladder. This helps find any abnormalities or problems contributing to repeated infections.

Comprehensive Review
Your doctor will also take a detailed look at your medical history and do a physical exam:

  • Medical History: They'll ask about your history of UTIs, any symptoms you've noticed, and any other health conditions that might be making things worse.
  • Physical Exam: A thorough exam can help identify any anatomical or functional issues in your urinary tract.

By using these methods, healthcare providers can get a clear picture of what's causing your chronic UTIs and create a treatment plan that's tailored to your specific situation.

The Long-Term Outlook for Someone With Chronic UTIs

Living with chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be tough, but knowing what to expect can help you manage the condition better. Here's what you should keep in mind:

Treatment and Management

  • Extended Antibiotic Use: Chronic UTIs often require long-term antibiotic treatment. While these can effectively clear infections, it's important to stay on top of your treatment plan and monitor for any side effects.
  • Symptom Tracking: Keep a close eye on your symptoms. Since UTIs can come back, catching them early can help prevent more serious complications.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Simple adjustments like drinking more water, taking regular bathroom breaks, and practicing good hygiene can help reduce the chances of another UTI.

Potential Complications

  • Kidney Damage: If chronic UTIs aren't treated properly, they can lead to kidney infections, which could cause lasting damage.
  • Bladder Issues: Ongoing infections can lead to bladder problems, including chronic pain and dysfunction.
  • Antibiotic Resistance: Using antibiotics for a long time can lead to resistance, making future infections harder to treat.

While chronic UTIs can be persistent and uncomfortable, staying proactive through monitoring, lifestyle changes, and preventive care can greatly improve your long-term outlook.

When To See Your OBGYN

Unless you see a medical professional for a proper diagnosis, it's a guessing game if you have a UTI or if your symptoms are due to something else. Your doctor can quickly confirm that your symptoms are indeed a UTI by taking a urine specimen. The sample will be sent off for a urinalysis or urine culture. From there, your doctor will come up with a proper treatment plan.

While there are many home remedies for treating UTIs and relieving symptoms, to be safe, it is advised to visit your doctor, especially if you have recurring UTIs, severe UTI symptoms, or if your symptoms do not improve within a few days of home treatment. Untreated UTIs can lead to severe complications, so it's better to be safe than sorry.

See an OBGYN in Franklin, TN

Urinary tract infections are among many conditions we treat and diagnose here at Cool Springs OB-GYN in Brentwood and Franklin, TN. Click here to contact us to schedule an appointment or if you have any UTI questions.