Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

What is Urinary Tract Infection?

A urinary tract infection is an infection that occurs anywhere in the urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. Most UTIs involve the lower urinary tract—the bladder and the urethra. UTIs are caused by bacteria, typically Escherichia coli (E. coli), which normally live in the intestines but can sometimes enter the urinary tract. While UTIs are usually easy to treat, they can become serious if the infection spreads to the kidneys. Symptoms of a UTI include a strong, persistent urge to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and pelvic pain.

What Causes Urinary Tract Infection?

UTIs are most commonly caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra. Women are more prone to UTIs than men because their urethra is shorter, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. Sexual activity, improper wiping (from back to front), and certain types of birth control, like diaphragms or spermicides, can increase the risk of developing a UTI. Other factors include menopause, which can lead to changes in the urinary tract, and urinary retention, where the bladder doesn’t empty completely. Underlying medical conditions like diabetes or kidney stones can also increase the risk of UTIs.

Available Treatments for UTIs

At New Jersey Urogynecology, we offer a range of treatments to effectively manage and prevent urinary tract infections. Our goal is to provide relief from symptoms and help reduce the risk of recurrent infections.

• Antibiotic Therapy: Antibiotics are the primary treatment for UTIs. They work by killing the bacteria causing the infection. The specific type and duration of antibiotic treatment depend on the severity of the infection and your medical history. It’s important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed to ensure the infection is fully cleared and to prevent resistance.
• Postmenopausal Vaginal Estrogen Therapy: For postmenopausal women, decreased estrogen levels can lead to changes in the urinary tract that make it more susceptible to infections. Vaginal estrogen therapy can help restore the natural balance of the vaginal and urinary environments, reducing the risk of recurrent UTIs. This treatment is available in various forms, including creams, tablets, and rings.
• Urinary Tract Health and Hygiene Counseling: Education on proper urinary tract health and hygiene is key to preventing UTIs. Our team will provide practical advice on how to reduce your risk of infection, such as drinking plenty of water, urinating after sexual activity, and avoiding irritants like certain soaps or feminine hygiene products.
• Preventative Antibiotic Therapy: For women who experience frequent UTIs, preventative antibiotic therapy may be recommended. This involves taking a low-dose antibiotic over a longer period to prevent infections from developing. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to take after sexual intercourse, a common trigger for UTIs in some women.
• Bladder Botox® Injections: For women who experience urinary incontinence or an overactive bladder as a result of chronic UTIs, Bladder Botox® injections may be an option. Botox® helps relax the bladder muscles, reducing urgency and frequency, which can lower the risk of recurrent infections. This minimally invasive procedure is performed in the office and provides relief for several months.

FAQs About Urinary Tract Infection?

What should you do at the first signs of a UTI?

At the first signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to help flush out the bacteria from the urinary tract. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort associated with UTI symptoms. It’s also wise to avoid irritants like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods that can worsen bladder infections. If symptoms persist or worsen, see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis, urine culture, and potential antibiotic treatment to prevent the UTI from progressing to a more serious kidney infection.

How can you treat a UTI?

Treating a urinary tract infection (UTI) typically involves consulting a healthcare provider, who may prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection from the urinary tract. Along with taking the prescribed antibiotics, drinking plenty of water can help flush the bacteria out of your urinary system. Cranberry juice or cranberry extract supplements may support urinary tract health, but they should not replace medical treatment. It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and complete the full course of antibiotics to effectively treat UTIs and prevent recurrent urinary tract infections.

How can a woman tell if she has a UTI?

A woman may suspect she has a urinary tract infection (UTI) if she experiences symptoms like a strong, persistent urge to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, cloudy urine, or strong-smelling urine. Pelvic pain, especially in the center of the pelvis and around the area of the pubic bone, can also be a symptom of a lower urinary tract infection. These symptoms of a UTI are typically clear indicators of a urinary tract infection and warrant a visit to a healthcare provider for confirmation through a urine culture or other urine tests.

What does UTI pain feel like?

UTI pain often feels like a burning or stinging sensation during urination. Some people may also experience lower abdominal pain or discomfort, which can be dull or sharp. There might be pressure or a heavy feeling in the pelvic area, specifically in the bladder. The pain can vary in intensity, but it is generally uncomfortable and may worsen as the bladder infection progresses. It’s important to address UTI symptoms early to prevent more serious complications like kidney infections.