The most common cause of UTIs, especially in women, is bacteria. These bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body) and begin to multiply which then leads to infection in various parts of the urinary tract, including the bladder, ureters, and kidneys.
Some of the most common symptoms of UTIs are frequent urination, feeling a sensation of burning while you urinate, pain while urinating, a sudden and strong urge to urinate, which means very little control over passing urine, etc. Sometimes, there is even blood in the urine and other factors like the smell and color of your urine also play a role in determining if you have any urinary tract infection.In women, recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) pose significant health risks and impact their overall well-being. UTIs which occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract are relatively more common in women due to factors such as shorter urethral length and proximity to the anus. When these infections become recurrent, they may lead to various complications.
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Some of the health risks associated with frequent urinary tract infections include significant discomfort and pain, impacting your daily life and the overall quality of life. It can also lead to antibiotic resistance as overuse of antibiotics for frequent UTIs can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This makes future infections harder to treat and increases the risk of more severe infections. In rare cases, untreated or recurring UTIs can ascend to the kidneys, leading to kidney infection and potential damage if not treated on time. During pregnancy, UTIs can increase the risk of premature birth as well as low birth weight of the baby.
(Author: Dr Astha Dayal, Lead Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram)