How to Prevent Yourself From Getting a UTI?

How to Prevent Yourself From Getting a UTI?

Date 03 Apr 2024  

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most frequent types of infections, and women are up to 30 times more likely than men to get them. Because the urinary system ends in one of the body's two waste orifices, it comes into contact with a lot of bacteria. The issue arises when a different kind of bacterium enters the tract from the wrong end.

What is an Urinary Tract Infection?

When faecal bacteria reach the urethra, the tube through which urine is discharged from the bladder, a urinary tract infection results. Bacteria introduced through sexual contact can potentially enter the urethra and cause a medical condition.

As per top gynaecologist in Hyderabad at Eternelle Aesthetics- Urinary tract infections are classified into three types. The first is urethritis, which is an inflammation of the urethra. The second type is cystitis which occurs when an infection travels from the urethra to the bladder. These are the most common and readily treated diseases; however, an infection may progress from the bladder to the kidneys. Pyelonephritis: is the third type that affects one or both kidneys. The kidneys filter toxins from the blood and send them to the bladder for collection. A kidney infection is even more dangerous and uncommon. It's a more serious type of UTI as it can lead to complications such as kidney damage or sepsis if left untreated. 

What Are the Symptoms of An Urinary Tract Infection?

A urinary tract infection can cause the following symptoms:

  • Urgency that is both intense and long-lasting
  • Urination causes burning
  • Small amounts of urination regularly
  • Cloudy urine, or urine that is red, pink, or brownish
  • Quite odorous urine
  • For women, pelvic discomfort, particularly in the centre of the pelvis and around the area of the pubic bone.

Reasons Why Women Get More UTIs Than Men

1. Anatomical structure

UTI occurs when Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria from the outer genitals and the area around the anus invade the urinary tract and enter the bladder. E. coli bacteria are naturally found in these areas, putting women at greater risk. Because the urethra, the tube that transports urine from the bladder, is so short, bacteria can easily enter the urinary system. Contamination of the perineum and urethral areas is the most likely cause of a urinary infection in women.

2. Sexual activities

Many women develop cystitis after becoming sexually active or meeting a new partner, as intercourse can transfer bacteria strains into the vaginal and urethral areas. Furthermore, bacteria remain in the urinary tract when women do not urinate immediately after sex. This can cause them to multiply, resulting in infection.

Paying attention to proper cleanliness, particularly when sexually active, can help women avoid UTIs. Urinating after intercourse and regular cleaning of the area are habits that can lower the risk of infection.

3. Use of Birth Control Methods

Particular types of birth control for women, such as spermicidal drugs and diaphragms, make women more susceptible to bladder infections. Most spermicides contain a hazardous substance known as nonoxy-nol-9, which has been linked to an increased risk of urinary infection. The diaphragm, on the other hand, might damage the areas near the bladder, making it accessible for bacteria to attach to the inner linings. For more details get in touch with the Best Doctors for Urinary Tract Infection Treatment in Hyderabad at Eternelle Aesthetics. 

4. Genetics

There is some evidence that genetics might predispose women to UTIs. A thorough investigation of one's family history can reveal a close relationship between family members who suffer from recurrent bladder infections. It's because they have a greater density of particular carbohydrate receptors, which certain strains of E. coli may cling to.

Unfortunately, there isn't much a woman can do if they feel their urinary infection is caused by heredity. Also, get medical attention immediately to lessen the severity of the UTI symptoms and effectively manage the disease.

5. Menopause

Women become more susceptible to UTIs as they age. Bacteria in the urine, commonly known as bacteriuria, affects 10% to 15% of women aged 65 to 70 and 20% to 50% of women aged 80 and beyond. If a woman experiences a bladder infection, such as cystitis or kidney issues, during the pre-menopausal stage, the infection is significantly more likely to recur throughout the menopausal and postmenopausal stages. A variety of factors, including heredity, hormone changes, and problems with other ailments associated with ageing, could be present here.

6. More sensitive skin

The external urethral meatus in women is primarily mucosa, the wet tissue that lines the inside of the vagina. In contrast to its male counterparts, this skin is thinner and more sensitive than the majority of the skin on the body. As a result of this, the female urethra is more easily damaged and inflamed. The inflamed skin provides an environment for bacteria to potentially thrive and grow before ascending the short distance up the urethra to the bladder.

7. Pregnancy

Pregnant women are also more likely to get UTIs. Severe infections can be harmful to both women and their babies. If a woman suspects she has a UTI, she should contact her obstetrician or can also consult Best Doctor for UTI Cure Treatment in Hyderabad at Eternelle Aesthetics immediately so that the infection can be treated as soon as possible.

8. Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is a major health concern, affecting 30-40% of women over the age of 30. Because of its prevalence in society, it is regarded as nearly a part of everyday life. Women seek to address this issue by wearing absorbent pads, carrying extra pants, or limiting fluid intake. The number of women seeking professional care for this issue is lower than expected, due to both acceptance of the condition as normal and the humiliation it creates.

As a result, women with urine incontinence plan their daily lives around this issue, and their quality of life is severely limited. Women with incontinence are more likely to experience psychological problems such as sexual disorders, UTIs, a lack of self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.

Best Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Treatment In Hyderabad 

The type and severity of urinary incontinence determine the appropriate treatment. There are numerous medical and surgical therapies available, and each patient's treatment should be tailored to their unique needs.

Most patients prefer physical and behavioural therapy as the first step. Surgery and combination therapy may be preferred for people with significant anatomical abnormalities and incontinence.

If you want to know more about how one can prevent themselves from getting a UTI, watch this video: 

Ways to Prevent UTIs 

Even with impeccable hygiene, women are generally more prone to urinary tract infections than men. However, there are some hygiene tips that women may adopt to help prevent UTIs.

  • Everyone is aware that wiping from back to front after urinating might result in a UTI caused by bacteria such as E. coli. However, wiping from front to back might also spread bacteria.  In contrast, consider the blotting technique. Gently blot the urethra, or top region of the vagina, with clean, folded toilet paper (ideally undyed and odourless). Blotting, as opposed to wiping, keeps bacteria out of the urethra.
  • Baths have also been blamed for UTIs. While filthy and unclean bath water can cause a UTI, there are ways to prevent it. If a woman enjoys soaking in the tub, she should shower afterwards to avoid irritation and possible infections.
  • Do not use other feminine hygiene products.
  • After intercourse, use the toilet to help remove any bacteria from the urethra.
  • Regularly, wash the front and back with soap and water.
  • Drink plenty of water to urge women to urinate more regularly and flush away bacteria.
  • When a woman feels the need to use the bathroom, her bladder should be empty.

If you're experiencing symptoms of a urinary tract infection like itching, a burning sensation while urinating, a foul smell from the vaginal area, fever, and pain in the abdominal area, then get in touch with a gynaecologist in Hyderabad at Eternelle Aesthetics at your earliest convenience. They can help you get the proper treatment and achieve a healthy urinary tract.