UTI or urinary tract infection is one of the most common medical infections. It is said that 50%-60% of adult women have had a UTI in their lifetime. Also, for about 25%-30% of women, a UTI can return within 6 months of having it.
How do you know if what you are feeling is a UTI? What causes them? Can it be treated? Before consulting a sexual health clinic in Pickering, let’s get to know more about UTIs.
Definition and Types of Urinary Tract Infection
Based on the term, it is an infection of your urinary tract. This involves your uterus, kidneys, bladder, and urethra. Often, the infection occurs in the bladder and urethra.
Where the infection occurs determines what type it is. Your symptoms also differ depending on the type of urinary tract infection you get. Here are three different types of UTIs and their symptoms:
- Urethritis – where the infection occurs in the urethra. This is where urine passes through from the bladder to the outside of the body. Urethritis can cause discharge and a burning sensation when peeing.
- Cystitis – often occurs when the infection from the urethra moves up to the bladder. This can cause:
- Lower belly pain
- Frequent urination
- Pain when peeing
- Bloody or cloudy urine
3. Pyelonephritis – where the infection occurs in the kidney. This is usually because of an infection that has spread up the tract, or if the urinary tract is blocked. Symptoms include:
- High-fever
- Chills
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pain in the upper back or side of your body
What Causes a UTI and How Can You Treat Urinary Tract Infections?
UTIs are caused by bacteria that get into the urinary tract. Bacteria can come from various sources. The most common source is the bacteria from your large intestines, like E. coli.
This is why women are more susceptible to UTIs than men. Because of the short distance from the anus to the urethra, the bacteria travel faster and more easily.
Luckily, UTIs are treatable. The most common way to treat urinary tract infections is through antibiotics. The type of antibiotic, dosage, and frequency depends on the type and severity of the UTI. Doctors may also prescribe pain meds to relieve any discomfort.
UTIs can also be preventive. Getting sexual health support in Durham can give you guidance on lifestyle choices that prevent UTIs, like:
- Drinking plenty of water
- Urinate when you need to, and don’t hold it in
- Empty your bladder right after intercourse
- Use contraceptive methods not prone to bacteria
Your Trusted Sexual Health Clinic in Pickering
Prevention is always better than a cure. As such, it is crucial to always have yourself checked by your trusted physicians. If you are looking for the best sexual health support in Durham, iCare Virtual is here for you.
We are a virtual walk-in clinic serving Pickering and other surrounding locations. We offer a variety of services, including routine medical care, mental health, and sexual health support. Seeing a physician is made even easier through our virtual care appointments. Give us a call today to learn more or book an appointment online.
