Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Urinary Tract Infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system. The urinary system includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract — the bladder and the urethra.

Symptoms

UTIs don't always cause symptoms. When they do, they may include:

• A strong urge to urinate that doesn't go away

• A burning feeling when urinating

• Urinating often, and passing small amounts of urine

• Urine that looks cloudy

• Urine that appears red, bright pink or cola-colored — signs of blood in the urine

• Strong-smelling urine

• Pelvic pain, in women — especially in the center of the pelvis and around the area of the pubic bone

Prevention

These steps may help lower the risk of UTIs:

• Drink plenty of liquids, especially water. Drinking water helps dilute the urine. That leads to urinating more often — allowing bacteria to be flushed from the urinary tract before an infection can begin.

• Try cranberry juice. Studies that look into whether cranberry juice prevents UTIs aren't final. However, drinking cranberry juice is likely not harmful.

• Wipe from front to back. Do this after urinating and after a bowel movement. It helps prevent the spread of bacteria from the anus to the vagina and urethra.

• Empty your bladder soon after having sex. Also drink a full glass of water to help flush bacteria.

• Avoid potentially irritating feminine products. Using them in the genital area can irritate the urethra. These products include deodorant sprays, douches and powders.

• Change your birth control method. Diaphragms, unlubricated condoms or condoms treated with spermicide can contribute to bacterial growth.