Urinary Tract Infection involves an infection of the kidneys, urethra and uterus and Urinary Bladder. These are involved eliminating urine from the body. It is common in infants, children, men and women. Pregnant women stand at a greater risk of developing Urinary Tract Infections. It has been a common menace especially among women who spend time outdoors and have to use public toilets. If left undiagnosed it can cause life threatening infections and even miscarriages in pregnant mothers.
What makes women susceptible to Urinary Tract Infection?
Women have a shorter urethra, placing the bladder much closer to the vaginal opening which is a hotspot of bacterial growth. It therefore becomes much easier to push the infection from the source to the kidneys.
Factors that contribute to the infection include:
- Kidney Stones
- Growth of bacteria as a result of sexual intercourse
- Hormonal imbalance
- Genetic- makeup
- Those suffering from HIV/AIDS
- Diabetes
What symptoms should you look for?
- Pain in the lower abdomen
- A burning sensation during urination
- Change in the colour or odour. Look for cloudiness or blood in Urine.
- Frequent tours to the toilet.
How to counter it?
- Keep your genitals clean. Wash your anus and vagina with a mild soap. Hygiene is important to protect you from harmful bacteria.
- Hydrate yourself with a minimum of 8 glasses of water every day. This will help you flush out toxins and bacteria that might have attacked your urinary tract.
- Use proper protective methods during sexual intercourse. Unprotected sex puts you at the greater risk of transmitting as well as being infected with diseases. It is often called “honeymoon cystitis”, referring to infection caused in the bladder as a result of indulging in frequent intercourse.
- Urinate before and after sex. Empty your bladder completely.
- Abstain from using scented products on your genitals.
- Change you pads and tampons frequently on your periods.
- Cut down on your caffeine, sweets, alcohol intake.
Anushree Ghosh
