Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)

Urinary tract infections)UTIs)

An infection in the urinary tract is called a urinary tract infection, or UTI. UTIs are expert by millions of people each year. Women are especially vulnerable to UTIs.

The cause of a urinary tract infection is bacteria, which often make their way from the digestive tract into the urinary system. One type of bacteria, Escherichia coli (or E. coli), normally lives in the colon. When introduced in the urinary tract, E. coli multiplies, and an infection results.

Other microorganisms known as Chlamydia and Mycoplasma can also cause urinary tract infections in both men and women. Unlike UTIs resulting from E. coli, these types of infections can be passed on through sexual contact.

Urinary tract infections can happen

Infection-fighting assets are found in the urinary system and help inhibit the growth of bacteria. Unfortunately, certain factors boost the chances that bacteria will enter the urinary tract and develop into an infection.

Sexual intercourse may lead to UTI’s in women. And due to the fact that the anus is so close to the female urethra, even women who aren't sexually active may contract lower urinary tract infections. Most cases of cystitis are caused by E. coli, a type of bacteria usually found in the gastrointestinal tract. When men suffer from a UTI it is typically acquired from sexual contact. Some sexually transmitted diseases, like herpes or chlamydia, also are possible causes.

Frequency

This urinary problem can be a characteristic sign of a urinary tract infection. Because irritation and swelling reduces the bladder's ability to hold urine, even small amounts of urine cause discomfort. Pregnancy, diabetes and prostate problems are other common causes of frequency.

Other possible causes

Risk factors specific to women for UTIs include

Female anatomy. A woman has a shorter urethra than a man does, which shortens the distance that bacteria must travel to reach the bladder

Sexual activity. Sexually active women tend to have more UTIs than do women who aren't sexually active. Having a new sexual partner also increases your risk.

Certain types of birth control. Women who use diaphragms for birth control may be at higher risk, as well as women who use spermicidal agents.

Menopause. After menopause, a decline in circulating estrogen causes changes in the urinary tract that make you more vulnerable to infection.

Other risk factors for UTIs include:

Urinary tract abnormalities. Babies born with urinary tract abnormalities that don't allow urine to leave the body normally or cause urine to back up in the urethra have an increased risk of UTIs.

Blockages in the urinary tract. Kidney stones or an enlarged prostate can trap urine in the bladder and increase the risk of UTIs.

A suppressed immune system. Diabetes and other diseases that impair the immune system — the body's defense against germs — can increase the risk of