Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
A bacterial infection in any part of the urinary system, causing painful urination and urgency.
Overview
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of your urinary system: kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract — the bladder and urethra. Women are at greater risk of developing a UTI than men. UTIs are typically caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra and multiplying in the bladder.
Common Age
Most common in women; can occur at any age
Prevalence
Very common; about 50% of women will have at least one UTI
Duration
With treatment: 1-3 days symptom relief; 7-14 days full recovery
Common Symptoms
- Strong, persistent urge to urinate
- Burning sensation when urinating
- Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
- Cloudy urine
- Red, bright pink, or cola-colored urine (blood)
- Strong-smelling urine
- Pelvic pain (in women)
- Fever (if infection spreads to kidneys)
Possible Causes
- Bacteria (usually E. coli)
- Sexual intercourse
- Not urinating after sex
- Poor hygiene (wiping back to front)
- Using certain birth control (diaphragm, spermicides)
- Menopause (decreased estrogen)
- Urinary tract abnormalities
- Blockages (kidney stones, enlarged prostate)
- Suppressed immune system
Note: These are potential causes. A healthcare provider can help determine the specific cause in your case.
Quick Self-Care Tips
- 1Drink plenty of water
- 2Urinate frequently and completely
- 3Wipe from front to back
- 4Urinate after sexual intercourse
- 5Avoid potentially irritating products (douches, sprays)
- 6Consider cranberry supplements (limited evidence)
- 7Take OTC pain relievers for discomfort
- 8Apply heating pad to abdomen
Disclaimer: These are general wellness suggestions, not medical treatment recommendations. They may help manage symptoms but should not replace professional medical care.
Detailed Treatment & Solutions
1HYDRATION
Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily. Fluids help flush bacteria from the urinary tract. Avoid caffeine and alcohol which can irritate the bladder.
2URINATION HABITS
Don't hold urine for long periods. Empty bladder completely. Urinate before and after sex. Avoid constipation which can put pressure on bladder.
3HYGIENE
Always wipe front to back. Keep genital area clean and dry. Wear cotton underwear. Avoid tight-fitting pants. Change out of wet swimsuits promptly.
4PREVENTION DURING SEX
Urinate before and after intercourse. Clean genital area before sex. Consider different birth control if using spermicides or diaphragm.
5CRANBERRY
May help prevent UTIs by preventing bacteria from sticking to bladder wall. Use unsweetened cranberry juice or supplements. Not effective for treating active infection.
6ANTIBIOTICS
UTIs require antibiotics (prescribed by doctor). Complete full course even if symptoms improve. Pain usually improves within 1-2 days of starting treatment.
Important: Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any treatment regimen. The solutions above are for educational purposes and may not be suitable for everyone.
Risk Factors
- Female sex
- Sexual activity
- Certain birth control
- Menopause
- Urinary tract abnormalities
- Catheter use
- Suppressed immune system
Prevention
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Urinating frequently
- Proper hygiene
- Urinating after sex
- Avoiding irritating products
When to See a Doctor
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:
- You have UTI symptoms for the first time
- Symptoms don't improve within a few days
- You have fever or chills
- You have back pain (possible kidney infection)
- You're pregnant
- You have frequent UTIs
- You have blood in your urine
Talk to a Healthcare Provider
If your symptoms are persistent, severe, or concerning, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper evaluation and personalized advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
QCan UTIs go away on their own?
While mild UTIs occasionally resolve without treatment, this is risky. Untreated UTIs can spread to the kidneys, causing a more serious infection. Antibiotics clear the infection quickly and prevent complications.
QWhy do women get more UTIs than men?
Women have a shorter urethra, so bacteria have a shorter distance to travel to reach the bladder. The urethra is also closer to the anus, making bacterial transfer easier. Hormonal changes during menopause also increase risk.
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Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions you have regarding a medical condition. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Information last reviewed: January 2026
This page provides educational information only. It is not medical advice.