CONDITIONS WE TREAT

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

At New Jersey Urogynecology, we understand that urinary tract infections can be a sensitive and challenging issue.Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common and often painful condition, especially for women. A UTI occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract, causing symptoms like a burning sensation during urination, frequent urges to urinate, and lower abdominal pain. At New Jersey Urogynecology, we understand how uncomfortable and disruptive UTIs can be. Our team is dedicated to providing prompt and effective treatment to help you find relief and prevent future infections.

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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. Bacteria cause UTIs, 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. Menopause leads to changes in the urinary tract that increase the risk of UTIs as women age. Underlying medical conditions like diabetes, urinary or fecal incontinence, and kidney stones can also increase the risk of UTIs.

Available Treatments for UTIs

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

  • Antibiotic Therapy: Antibiotics are the primary treatment for culture-proven 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 course of antibiotics as prescribed to ensure the infection is fully cleared and prevent resistance.
  • 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 reducing 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: Preventative antibiotic therapy may be recommended for women who experience frequent UTIs. 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.
  • Non-antibiotic Prevention: Non-antibiotic options for preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs) include natural supplements like cranberry products, D-mannose, and probiotics. Cranberry may help prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall. D-mannose is a sugar that may interfere with bacterial attachment, and probiotics aim to maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the urinary tract. While these approaches are generally safe, the scientific evidence on their effectiveness varies, so discussing them with your healthcare provider is important.

Take the First Step Toward UTI Relief

If you’re struggling with the symptoms of a urinary tract infection, New Jersey Urogynecology is here to help. We offer prompt, effective treatment to relieve your discomfort and prevent future infections. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward relief.

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