Urinary tract infections (UTIs) affect millions of Americans each year, causing discomfort and increasing the risk of more serious infections, as well as kidney dysfunction. Fortunately, most infections clear up with a round of antibiotics, but sometimes, UTIs become chronic, either returning frequently or never fully going away.
At Desert Star Institute for Family Planning, DeShawn Taylor, MD, MSc, FACOG, helps women understand why UTIs are occurring, providing patient-centered therapies focused on halting the cycle of infection. Here, learn some of the most common causes behind recurrent UTIs and what we can do to help.
Bacterial infections cause Most UTIs, and antibiotics are usually highly effective in destroying those germs and putting an end to the infection. However, antibiotics are only effective when used as directed.
Many women stop taking antibiotics once their symptoms improve — but that doesn’t mean the bacteria have all been eliminated. Stopping too early gives those germs a chance to repopulate and causes the infection to recur. When medicine is prescribed for your UTI, be sure to take the full course exactly as prescribed for maximum benefits.
Sometimes, the bacteria behind your UTI are resistant to the standard antibiotics used for UTI treatment. In these instances, you might need a different type of antibiotic or a combination of medications to get rid of your UTI. Dr. Taylor may take a urine culture to determine which bacteria are present so your treatment can be more targeted.
Certain medical conditions can make you more vulnerable to UTIs. Diabetes is a relatively common medical issue that weakens your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off UTIs. High levels of glucose in your urine can increase bacterial populations, as well.
Hormonal changes can also increase the risk of recurrent UTIs by altering the pH balance inside your urethra, making the environment more hospitable for “bad” bacteria. Additionally, anatomical issues that affect your bladder or urethra can lead to chronic UTIs in some women by making it harder for your body to eliminate bacteria through urination.
Simple hygiene issues can increase your risk of a UTI, too. Because the urethra and anus are so close together, wiping from back to front after using the bathroom can transfer bacteria into the urinary tract. Always remember to wipe from front to back when using the toilet.
It’s also important to practice good hygiene before and after sexual activity. Cleaning the genital area and urinating soon after sex can help flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra during intercourse.
Drinking plenty of water is one of the simplest ways to decrease your risk of recurrent UTIs, yet it’s often overlooked. Staying hydrated helps your body produce more urine, allowing it to flush away harmful bacteria more easily. On the other hand, even mild dehydration can lead to bacterial overpopulation and an increased risk of chronic UTIs.
UTIs can cause annoying and uncomfortable symptoms, but without prompt treatment, they can also lead to serious, widespread infections and permanent kidney damage. Dr. Taylor and her team use an individual approach to treatment, using lab testing and diagnostic imaging when appropriate to identify the cause of chronic infections so they can be treated appropriately.
If you’re having UTI symptoms or if you have frequent UTIs, relief is here. To find out more, request an appointment online or over the phone with Dr. Taylor and the team at Desert Star Family Planning in Phoenix, Arizona, today.
