Urinary Tract Infections: How to Prevent It

Urinary tract infection or UTI may be accompanied by annoying symptoms such as pain or burning on urination or the continued need to go to the bathroom. It is estimated that more than half of the female population will suffer an infection of this type throughout their life.

According to the National Incontinence Observatory, suffering an episode of urinary tract infection increases the chance of recurrence by up to 20%. Adolescence and menopause are two of the stages of life in which the risks of having a urine infection are greater. In the first case, coinciding with the onset of partner relationships and, in the second, as a consequence of the loss of estrogen, the cause may be behind some urinary infections.

Why does the woman have more urinary tract infections?

Annoying and even painful symptoms to those who are more vulnerable by the anatomy of the female apparatus. The urethra, pelvic floor, uterus, bladder and rectum share a very small space.

To this must be added that the reduced size of the urethra, the end of which is located in the vagina, an area frequently visited by bacteria. When an infection occurs, there are a number of circumstances, such as the presence of bacteria in the urethra and a further weakening of the woman’s immune system.

Causes of UTIs

Urine infection is caused by microorganisms, bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, the most common, that enter the bladder through the urethra. Among the possible causes of urinary tract infections, or at least those that create a more conducive scenario to its appearance:

• Couple relationships.
• Alteration of the vaginal flora and urethra due to the use of diaphragms or spermicide, as well as the use of IUDs.
• Consumption of certain antibiotics.
• Obstruction (obstacles in the flow of urine by calculations, narrowing, enlargement of the prostate in the case of men …).

Types of UTIs

Bacteriuria infection: Caused by the presence of bacteria in urine tests.
Lower Urinary Tract Infection: Cystitis, one of the most common infections; urethritis and, in the case of men, prostatitis.
Upper urinary tract infections: These are more severe infections and can affect other organs, such as the kidneys (acute pyelonephritis).
Uncomplicated urinary tract infection: Cystitis, pyelonephritis, without other complications.
Complicated urinary tract infection: When they appear to be associated with other disorders such as immunosuppression or metabolic disorders.
Recurrent urinary tract infection: Those that recur after treatment.
Chronic urinary tract infection: When it does not respond to treatments and is chronic.

Symptoms of UTIs

• Constant urge to urinate.
• Pain when urinating.
• Sensation of burning and vaginal itching.
• Abnormal color of urine.
• There may also be episodes of fever or low back pain.
• Blood may appear in the urine.

How to prevent UTIs

• Drink more water.
• Monitor intimate hygiene.
• Include blueberry juice for cystitis in the diet.
• Consume dairy products with probiotics.
• Urinating after having sex.
• Avoid vaginal douches.
• Avoid swimming with a wetsuit after taking a dip.
• Avoid sharing certain bath and hygiene products, such as towels.