1. Do I Have A Urinary Tract Infection?
Women First Health Center
Drs. Sylvester, Youngren, Lo and Sansobrino
Created by Megan Blomeyer, MS-IV, St. George’s University
Image Courtesy of: Nutrivize. When A Urinary Tract Infection Goes Rogue. 23 March Web. 31 August <

2. Development
Bacteria naturally live on the skin near the anus and in the vagina.
These bacteria can enter the lower urinary tract through the urethra (an external opening from which urine is released) and can travel to the bladder creating a bladder infection called cystitis.
From the bladder, the bacteria can move to the upper urinary tract, made up of the ureters and kidneys, to cause a more severe illness known as pyelonephritis.

3. Causes
Women are more prone to urinary tract infections or UTIs because they have a shorter urethra than men.
In women, the urethral opening is in front of the vagina. This puts women at greater risk of a UTI following sexual intercourse when bacteria present on the fingers, devices or the penis travel from the vagina into the urethra. This is especially true when women have intercourse for the first time, more frequently than they are accustomed to or when they use spermicides or diaphragms.
Improper emptying of the bladder due to a stone in the kidney, ureters or bladder or problems releasing urine can also lead to a bladder infection.

4. Risk Factors
Urinary tract abnormalities that prevent adequate release or back up of urine
Prior urinary tract infection
Diabetes mellitus
Obesity
Multiple births
Menopause
Pregnancy

5. Symptoms of a Bladder Infection
Strong urge to urinate that can not be delayed
Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
A sharp or burning pain while urinating
Soreness in the lower abdomen
Cloudy or odorous urine
Red, bright pink or Coke-colored urine

6. Symptoms of a Kidney Infection
In addition to the previously listed symptoms, a kidney infection presents with:
Chills
Fever
Nausea and/or vomiting
Back and/or side pain
A kidney infection is very serious and must be treated right away. Contact your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.

7. Diagnosis A urine sample to look for bacteria or signs of infection.
A urine culture to determine which antibiotic(s) destroys the bacteria the best.
If a urinary tract abnormality is suspected, an ultrasound or CT scan may be conducted.
Patients with recurrent UTIs may be examined with a scope through the urethra and into the bladder to look for problems in these organs.

8. Treatment
Most bladder infections can be treated at home with antibiotics. Your symptoms should resolve in a few days, but it is very important to finish all your medication.
If the infection involves the kidney or if you have more serious bladder infection, you may need to be hospitalized for intravenous antibiotics which are given through a tube placed in your vein.

9. Lifestyle Modifications and Home Remedies
Until your infection resolves, avoid drinks that irritate the bladder such as coffee, alcohol and soft drinks with citrus juices or caffeine.
Drink plenty of fluids to flush out the bacteria.
Place a warm heating pad on your abdomen to minimize bladder pressure and discomfort.

10. Complications
Permanent kidney damage if the infection is not treated properly
Increased risk of pregnant women delivering premature or low birth weight infants

11. Prevention
Wipe from front to back after urinating or a bowel movement.
Wash the skin around the vagina and anus (opening of the rectum on the outside of the body).
Flush bacteria out of your urinary system by drinking plenty of fluids. Unsweetened cranberry juice has also been shown to decrease the risk of developing a UTI.

12. Other Preventative Measures
Empty your bladder every 2-3 hours or as soon as you feel the urge. Also emptying soon after intercourse can help flush out bacteria.
Wear cotton underwear.
Avoid douches, powders and deodorant sprays to the vaginal area.

13. Questions?
If you have any questions or think you may have a urinary tract infection, please contact your doctor.

14. References
The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Urinary Tract Infection Frequently Asked Questions. May Web. 3 September < 666>.
Mayo Clinic. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). 29 August Web. 2 September <
Nutrivize. When A Urinary Tract Infection Goes Rogue. 23 March Web. 31 August < rogue/>.