UTI

What causes a UTI?

UTIs occur when bacteria normally living on the outside of your body travel into your urinary tract. These bacteria may cause an infection in your bladder, kidneys, or the urethra — the tube that eliminates urine. The location of the UTI determines its name:

• Cystitis – bladder infection
• Urethritis – urethral infection
• Pyelonephritis – kidney infection

Women are four-times more likely to get a UTI than men because their urethra is closer to their anus, making it easier for bacteria to migrate. Menopause also adds to women’s chances of getting UTIs, as the loss of estrogen causes atrophic vaginitis.

What symptoms develop due to a UTI?

A mild UTI may clear up without causing symptoms, but most patients experience problems such as:

• Frequent urination
• Burning during urination
• Passing small amounts of urine
• Strong smelling urine
• Urinary incontinence
• Pink, dark, or cloudy urine
• Pelvic pain

If the infection reaches your kidneys, you’ll also have a fever, nausea, and pain in your upper back or side.

How is a UTI diagnosed and treated?

Dr. Kamal-Mostafavi reviews your medical history and symptoms, then runs a urinalysis to verify you have an infection. In some cases, patients also need a urine culture to identify the type of bacteria causing the infection.

UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics. About 30% of women develop recurring UTIs, which are defined as two or more infections in six months or three or more over the course of a year. 

If you have recurring UTIs you may need a low dose of antibiotics for a longer time or a single dose of antibiotic taken after sexual intercourse. Drinking plenty of water may help prevent recurring UTIs by diluting your urine and flushing bacteria from your urinary tract.

What should I know about UTIs after menopause?

When estrogen levels drop after menopause, the tissues lining your urinary tract become dehydrated and thin. These changes make you more susceptible to UTIs and urinary incontinence.

You can strengthen the tissues and prevent urinary tract problems by taking hormone replacement therapy or through gentle laser treatment with the MonaLisa Touch® by Cynosure®. Research suggests the laser’s energy stimulates tissues to produce more collagen and elastin, which helps eliminate UTIs.

When you have a UTI, symptom relief is available — call Dr. Kamal-Mostafavi or schedule an appointment online.