Urinary tract infections are the most common health problem among women. Infection occurs when a micro-organism invades the bladder or the urethra, which carries urine from the bladder and out of the body. The result is burning or pain during urination, the urge to urinate frequently, lower back pain and sometimes blood in the urine. Though they’re much more common in women, men can also develop urinary tract infections—especially those over age 50, who may have enlarged prostates. Proper hygiene and drinking lots of fluids are both essential for preventing urinary tract infections.

In most cases, bacteria first begin growing in the urethra. An infection limited to the urethra is called urethritis. From there bacteria often move on to the bladder, causing a bladder infection (cystitis). If the infection is not treated promptly, bacteria may then go up the ureters to infect the kidneys. The most common bacterial culprit is Escherichia coli (E. coli). Although they are normal inhabitants of the colon, they can gain entry into the bladder and multiply. These bacteria are responsible for over 80 % of UTIs in adults. UTIs are more common in women which may be because the urethra is shorter and closer to the anus, giving E. coli bacteria easier access.

Besides E. coli, the bacteria staphylococcus saphrophyticus is responsible for up to 20 % of urinary tract infections in sexually active women. Other microorganisms called chlamydia trachomatis and mycoplasma hominis can be sexually transmitted, and infections require treatment of both partners.

Risk factors

• Poor hygiene

• Sexual intercourse

• Menopause - lower estrogen levels cause thinning of the urinary tract

• Urinary catheterization

• Suppressed immune system - e.g. diabetes

• Kidney stones - obstructs flow of urine

• Any condition that prevents complete bladder emptying

• Use of diaphragm as birth control.

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