A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection that affects the urinary system, which includes the bladder, ureters, urethra, and kidneys.
Urinary tract infections develop when bacteria from outside the body (most commonly from the rectum or skin) enter the urethra and infect the urinary system.
Although anyone can get a UTI, women are more at risk than men. It is estimated that around 50% to 60% of women will experience an infection in their lifetime.
The risk of developing a UTI can be minimized if you know the risk factors and take measures to prevent an infection. These factors include:
- Eating excessive amounts of sugar
- Having diabetes
- Hormonal changes such as menopause
- Holding in your urine for too long or not emptying your bladder completely
- Wiping the wrong way (It is recommended that you wipe from front to back. Going the opposite way can track bacteria from your anus to the urethra)
- Frequently wearing thong or string-bikini underwear
- Frequently wearing tight pants
- Frequent sexual intercourse
- Not urinating after having sexual intercourse
- Not drinking enough water
- Using certain forms of birth control such as a diaphragm, spermicide, or unlubricated condoms
- Catheter use
- Taking certain medications such as some antihistamines or antipsychotic drugs
- Frequently riding a bicycle
Some risk factors are easier to address than others and some are unavoidable, but there are steps you can take to help lower the risk of a UTI. Drinking plenty of water helps dilute urine and makes you urinate more often, which flushes bacteria out of the urinary system. Wiping front to back after using the bathroom is also helpful. Other measures include reducing your sugar intake, changing your method of birth control, managing your diabetes, avoiding holding in your urine and urinating after intercourse.
If you are frequently experiencing urinary tract infections, you should make an appointment to see your doctor. To schedule an appointment at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5486.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.