Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Care

Types of Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections typically occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder. The most common types of urinary tract infections involve the bladder and urethra.  

• Cystitis (infection of the bladder), which may lead to symptoms such as pelvic pressure, lower abdomen discomfort, frequent and painful urination or blood in the urine. Some women simply notice a change in the odor or appearance of their urine. 
• Urethritis (infection of the urethra), which may include symptoms such as burning with urination or discharge. 
• Kidney infection (also called pyelonephritis), which may include symptoms such as upper back and side pain, high fever, shaking and chills, nausea and vomiting. 

When to Seek Expert Care for a UTI

One or two urinary tract infections in a year are common in women and do not require specialty evaluation. A recurrent urinary tract infection is defined as two or more UTIs (diagnosed with a urine culture test) in a six-month period or three or more within a year. This is when it's time to seek treatment. 

Treatment for Recurrent UTIs

When treated promptly, lower urinary tract infections rarely lead to complications. However, acute or chronic kidney infections may lead to kidney damage. Urinary Tract Infections very rarely require surgery. 

Non-surgical treatments may include:

• Low-dose vaginal estrogen can significantly reduce UTIs in women with low estrogen levels.
• Treatment with antibiotics. In women who experience UTIs related to sexual activities, a lower-dose antibiotic can be given at the time of sexual activity to prevent UTIs. 
• Prevention with non-antibiotic measures, including the supplement D-mannose and certain probiotics.

See also: Voices for Pelvic Floor Disorders (PFD)

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