Why Do Some Women Get Frequent UTIs? — We’re Answering Your Questions

More than half of all women experience a urinary tract infection (UTI) at least once in their lifetime. In fact, women are automatically more prone to UTIs than men, because the female urethra is shorter and located close to the rectum and vagina, making it easier for bacteria to travel into the bladder.

However, some women experience UTIs as a recurring issue. We know having a UTI can be painful, disruptive and frustrating, but if you experience them often, know that we want to help you find answers and get relief. Keep reading for helpful insight on the potential reasons you may experience frequent UTIs and steps to help prevent them.

Understanding Recurring UTIs

A urinary tract infection occurs when you experience bacterial growth in your urinary tract — your bladder, urethra, ureter or kidneys. If you have at least two urinary tract infections in six months or three within a year, you’re a part of 25% of all women facing recurrent UTIs. Recurring infections shouldn’t be ignored, as an untreated UTI could damage the kidneys or spread to your bloodstream. Talk to your doctor about your condition to discuss potential testing, prevention strategies and underlying causes.

UTI Symptoms

While you may not experience all the following symptoms during a UTI, the most common symptoms can include:

• A burning sensation when urinating
• A strong odor when you urinate
• Cloudy or bloody urine
• Feeling like your bladder is still full following urination
• Lower stomach pain above the pubic bone
• The urge to urinate frequently

If your UTI is in a kidney, additional symptoms can include:

• Chills
• Fever
• Lower abdominal pain
• Pain in the lower back
• Vomiting

A UTI located in the kidneys is serious and it’s important to seek medical attention right away before your condition spreads to your bloodstream.

Potential UTI Triggers

Many everyday habits and factors can increase your risk for a UTI, including:

• Holding in your urine
• Hormonal changes
• Genetics
• Kidney stones
• Pregnancy
• Prolonged use of antibiotics
• Reaching menopause
• Recent catheterization
• Sexual activity
• Using spermicide or a diaphragm as a form of contraception
• Underlying health conditions
• Wiping back to front after using the bathroom rather than front to back

Your gynecologist can help you navigate the reason(s) you’re experiencing frequent UTIs and help determine the best course of action to help you find relief.

UTI Prevention and Treatment

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent UTIs, the best way to reduce your risk is by staying well hydrated to flush the bacteria out of your body. Experts recommend drinking two to three liters of water and other potentially helpful fluids, like cranberry juice, every day.

Other helpful approaches you can take to reduce your risk of recurring UTIs include:

• Avoiding scented soaps, sprays and other products that can upset the balance of healthy bacteria
• Urinating before and immediately following sexual intercourse
• Using alternative contraception rather than a spermicide or diaphragm
• Using the bathroom when you need to go rather than holding in your urine
• Wipe front to back when using the bathroom

If you have diabetes or high blood sugar, it’s important to manage your condition effectively. Increased glucose levels in urine create an environment where bacteria can thrive.

UTIs are on the rise, and it’s important to know you don’t have to navigate your condition alone. If your UTIs come back after a round of antibiotics, talk to your doctor to discuss whether taking a long-term, low-dose antibiotic could benefit you instead.

Helping You Feel Whole Again

Recurring UTIs can be painful and quite frustrating. If you’re currently facing a urinary tract infection, our urgent care experts can help you find relief. Walk in or schedule an appointment at your nearest AdventHealth Centra Care today.

Learn more about our urgent care services.