Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs are very common. They are caused by germs entering and multiplying in the urinary tract. This can be E-coli (the most common type of bacteria passed between the anus and urethra) or micro-organisms such as mycoplasma or chlamydia, which are passed on during sexual activity.

UTIs are given different names depending on where the infection occurs:

• Urethritis – if the infection is in the urethra
• Cystitis – if the infection is in the bladder
• Pyelonephritis – if the infection is in the kidneys
• Vaginitis – if the infection is in the vagina.

Common symptoms of a UTI include:

• a burning sensation when passing urine
• wanting to urinate more often, if only to pass a few drops
• Feeling that the bladder is still full after urinating
• cloudy, bloody or very smelly urine
• pain above the pubic bone.

Signs of urinary tract infections in children can also include:

• low fever
• irritability
• day or night wetting in a child who has been dry
• feeding problems in babies

If the infection moves to the kidneys, there may also be high fever, chills, back pain, lower abdominal (loin) point, and vomiting. If you or your child experiences any of these symptoms, seek medical attention as soon you can.

To diagnose a UTI, a doctor can perform a simple urine test. A urine sample may be sent to a laboratory to identify the specific cause of the infection and to help determine the correct course of treatment, which is usually in the form of an antibiotic.

If you think you have a UTI, particularly a bladder or kidney infection, it is important to see your doctor as early treatment can prevent more serious infections.

To prevent UTIs, it’s recommended you drink lots of fluid, particularly water, to wash bacteria from the bladder and urinary tract.

In addition, women can lower their risk of contracting a UTI by:

• promptly treating a vaginal infection, such as thrush or trichomoniasis (sexually transmitted disease)
• avoiding spermicide-containing products, particularly with a diaphragm
• avoiding constipation.

Some women have found the following tips helpful:

• urinate immediately after sexual intercourse
• do not delay going to the toilet when you need to
• wipe from front to back after urinating
• wear cotton underwear
• wash between your legs every day using only water.

Some people are at greater risk of developing urinary tract infections. These include:

• Women – Nearly one in three women will have a urinary tract infection needing treatment before the age of 24.
• Men with prostate problems – An enlarged prostate gland can cause the bladder to only partially empty, raising the risk of infection.
• Older people – Some medications and problems with incontinence put older people in a higher risk group.
• People with urinary catheters – People who are critically ill and others who can’t empty their own bladder are at risk of infection.
• People with diabetes – Changes to the immune system make a person with diabetes more vulnerable to infection.
• Babies – In particular, infants born with physical problems (congenital abnormalities) of the urinary system are at greater risk.

To learn more, you can view our urinary tract infections fact sheet.