Did you know that 60% of women will have at least one urinary tract infection (UTI) in their lifetime? Unfortunately, many of them will also struggle with recurrent infections. At Midwest Women Obstetrician/Gynecologist Ltd in Downers Grove, Illinois, the experienced team provides integrative care, giving you much-needed symptom relief and helping to prevent future UTIs. At the first sign of difficulty urinating, call the office or request an appointment online today.

What is a UTI?

A UTI, or urinary tract infection, is an infection that occurs in any part of the urinary tract, including the bladder, ureters, or urethra.

What causes UTIs?

Women are at higher risk of contracting bladder infections than men due to the short distance between the anus and urethra. 

When E. coli, a bacteria that lives on your skin, enters the urinary tract, it can cause infection. Sexual intercourse, incontinence, and improper wiping can spread the bacteria from the anus to the urethra.

Additionally, the urethra can become infected by the same bacteria that cause sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Sexual activity that involves the anus increases risk, as does diaphragm and spermicide use.

What are the signs and symptoms of a urinary tract infection?

Common signs and symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) include the following:

• A burning sensation when urinating
• A frequent urge to urinate
• Difficulty starting a stream
• Fever
• Blood in the urine, or dark, amber-colored urine

If you have a UTI, you may experience pain in the bladder, lower abdomen, groin, or pelvis.

How is a UTI diagnosed?

Urinary tract infections are identified by screening the urine for harmful pathogens. The team at  Midwest Women OB/GYN Ltd will obtain a urine sample from you and send it to the lab for evaluation.

How is a UTI treated?

If you have a UTI, the team may prescribe an antibiotic to kill the bacteria causing the infection. 

You should start to feel better just 24 hours after your first dose, with substantial improvement after just a couple of days. Increasing your daily fluid intake is also essential.

Can a UTI be prevented?

You can take some measures to help prevent a urinary tract infection (UTI). Preventive measures include the following:

• Maintain good hygiene
• Wipe from front to back
• Follow sterile process guidelines when inserting and removing a catheter
• If you suffer from bowel incontinence, change soiled briefs right away and take a shower
• Choose forms of birth control unaccompanied by an increased risk

You can’t always prevent UTIs, but these helpful preventive measures can reduce your risk.

If you think you may be suffering from a UTI, don’t delay a moment longer. Call Midwest Women OB/GYN Ltd to speak to a member of the team or request an appointment online today.