A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a medical condition that often affects women's health. Chances of developing UTIs are generally high for women of all ages. Here is what you should know about this common disorder. 

What Is It?

If you develop an infection in part of your urinary system, it is a UTI. This type of infection appears in organs, such as your bladder, kidneys, ureters, and urethra. The infections often reoccur, sometimes over years. 

UTI symptoms include intense or frequent urges to urinate that produce only small amounts of liquid. You might experience a burning sensation when urinating, and the liquid might be dark, cloudy, bloody, or smell strange. Other symptoms include pressure or pain in the lower back or abdomen. If you feel chills or fever, it may mean a kidney infection. 

What Causes It?

The tube that directs urine from your bladder to outside your body is the urethra, which is close to the anus. Women's urethras are shorter than men's, so bacteria get to women's bladders easier. 

If you wipe from back to front after using the bathroom, infectious bacteria like E. coli, from the large intestine can escape the anus, enter the urethra, and travel up to your bladder. An untreated infection can continue into the kidneys. Having intercourse can also introduce bacteria into your urinary tract. 

How Do You Treat It?

Typically, antibiotics are used to treat UTIs. If your women's health professional prescribes them, finish taking the medicine, even though you're feeling better. Your physician might prescribe a pain medication to reduce discomfort and applying a heating pad also helps. To speed the process of flushing bacteria from your body, drink plenty of water.

If you want a medical partner to help you maintain good health and avoid or treat UTIs, turn to Paula Korn A.N.P. This Advanced Nurse Practitioner provides high-quality women's health services to patients throughout Anchorage, AK. Women throughout the area trust this women's health clinic for personalized advice, care, and treatment. Visit their website to learn more about their services and call (907) 277-2597 to book an appointment.