Causes and Prevention of the Female's UTI

Women tend to get them more often because their urethra is shorter and closer to the anus than in men. Because of this, women are more likely to get an infection after sexual activity or when using a diaphragm for birth control. Menopause also increases the risk of a UTI.


The following situations also increase your chances of developing a UTI:
-Diabetes
-Advanced age (especially people in nursing homes)
-Problems emptying your bladder completely (urinary retention)
-A tube called a urinary catheter inserted into your urinary tract
-Bowel incontinence
-Enlarged prostate, narrowed urethra, or anything that blocks the flow of urine
-Kidney stones
-Staying still (immobile) for a long period of time (for example, while you are recovering from a hip fracture)
-Pregnancy
-Surgery or other procedure involving the urinary tract


Then what symptoms there are if you get UTI?The symptoms of a bladder infection include:
-Cloudy or bloody urine, which may have a foul or strong odor
-Low fever (not everyone will have a fever)
-Pain or burning with urination
-Pressure or cramping in the lower abdomen (usually middle) or back
-Strong need to urinate often, even right after the bladder has been emptied


If the infection spreads to your kidneys, symptoms may include:
-Chills and shaking or night sweats
-Fatigue and a general ill feeling
-Fever above 101 degrees Fahrenheit
-Flank (side), back, or groin pain
-Flushed, warm, or reddened skin
-Mental changes or confusion (in the elderly, these symptoms often are the only signs of a UTI)
-Nausea and vomiting
-Severe abdominal pain (sometimes)


There are some ways of Prevention.Lifestyle changes may help prevent some UTIs. After menopause, a woman may use estrogen cream in the vagina area to reduce the chance of further infections.


BATHING AND HYGIENE
-Choose sanitary pads instead of tampons, which some doctors believe make infections more likely. Change the pad each time you use the bathroom.
-Do not douche or use feminine hygiene sprays or powders. As a general rule, do not use any product containing perfumes in the genital area.
-Take showers instead of baths. Avoid bath oils.
-Keep your genital area clean. Clean your genital and anal areas before and after sexual activity.
-Urinate before and after sexual activity.
-Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom.


CLOTHING
-Avoid tight-fitting pants.
-Wear cotton-cloth underwear and pantyhose, and change both at least once a day.


DIET
-Drink plenty of fluids (2 to 4 quarts each day).
-Drink cranberry juice or use cranberry tablets, but NOT if you have a personal or family history of kidney stones.
-Do NOT drink fluids that irritate the bladder, such as alcohol and caffeine.