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Did you know that more than half of women will experience at least one urinary tract infection (UTI) at some point in their lives?1 UTIs are common, particularly in women, and are often caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the common signs of urinary infections, who’s affected by them, and some self-care tips to reduce the risk of UTIs.
What are UTIs?
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are also called bladder infections or cystitis, and they can occur anywhere in the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. However, they are primarily triggered by bacteria entering the bladder.
While UTIs can affect anyone, they're significantly more common in women. In fact, women get UTIs up to 30 times more often than men do, and some women experience them regularly (called recurrent UTIs).2
From anatomical differences to the stages of a woman’s reproductive life cycle and hormonal changes, there are lots of reasons why women are more susceptible to UTIs. The biggest reason is the female anatomy – in women the urethra (the tube that connects the bladder to the outside of the body) is shorter than in men.
What increases the risks of UTIs?
There are various factors that can increase your risk for a UTI, for instance:
- Being sexually active: sexual activity can facilitate the movement of UTI-causing bacteria from other areas, like the vagina, to the urethra.
- Having diabetes: diabetes can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections, and it can also lead to nerve damage, making it challenging to completely empty your bladder.
- Being pregnant: pregnancy hormones can alter the bacterial balance in the urinary tract, increasing the likelihood of UTIs. Additionally, the pressure exerted by the uterus on the bladder during pregnancy can hinder complete bladder emptying, leaving behind urine with bacteria.
- Using spermicide or a diaphragm for birth control, which may cause more frequent UTIs. Spermicide can create vaginal irritation, providing an environment for bacteria to thrive.
- Going through menopause - As women age, especially during menopause when oestrogen levels decrease, the vaginal tissue becomes thinner and more prone to infection. Research is being conducted on the use of oestrogen creams or pills to prevent UTIs in menopausal and postmenopausal women.
Common UTI Symptoms to watch out for:
Recognising the symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) is crucial for seeking timely medical help. Common signs of UTIs include pain, burning, or stinging during urination, frequent urges to urinate, and pressure or cramping in the lower abdomen. These symptoms often indicate a lower UTI, such as a bladder infection or cystitis.3
However, if additional symptoms like fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or pain in the lower back or side are observed, it could signify a more serious UTI affecting the kidneys. Kidney infections, while less common, require immediate medical attention.
Self-care tips to prevent UTIs
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be uncomfortable and disruptive, but there are practical self-care measures you can take to reduce your risk of developing them. Here are some helpful tips:
- Don't hold it: Avoid delaying urination, as the longer urine stays in the bladder, the more time bacteria have to grow.
- Urinate before and after sex: Emptying your bladder before and after sexual activity can help flush out any potential bacteria.
- Wipe front to back: When cleaning after using the toilet, wipe from the front to the back to minimise the transmission of bacteria from the anus to the urethra.
- Stay well hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain adequate urinary flow and flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.
- Take showers instead of baths: Showers are preferable to baths, as sitting in a bath can allow bacteria to enter the urethra.
- Minimise douching, sprays or powders in the genital area: while it's important to practice genital hygiene, avoid using harsh soaps or powders, and avoid douching, as they can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.
How to test for a UTI
If you suspect you have a UTI, it's crucial to consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis. They will be able to determine whether your symptoms are caused by a UTI or something else. Additionally, a home test can provide a quick pre-assessment, especially if you experience recurrent UTIs. These kits will check whether your urine contains the two most common signs of a UTI infection: nitrites and leukocytes. If both are present, it's likely that you have a UTI.
Our UTI test kit provides rapid and accurate results within just two minutes. Each kit includes three testing strips. To use the test, simply collect urine in a clean cup and dip the strip into the sample. After 1 to 2 minutes, the test strip will change colour, indicating the results. Find out more about our range of at-home self-diagnostic kits.
