Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections are common among people of all ages, yet women are more likely to be affected (and affected again, and again) than anyone else. The design of the female body places the urethra close to the anus. One of the first things parents teach their young girls when they are potty training is the importance of wiping front to back. When bacteria enter into the urethra they will begin to multiply in the bladder. It is extremely important that women (and men) who have any concerns about a urinary tract infection to visit the doctor as soon as possible. A UTI may seem like just an annoying inconvenience, but if it reaches the kidneys very serious effects can occur.

The symptoms of a urinary tract infection are often ignored at first because they seem “silly” – having the urge to use the bathroom frequently is often laughed off as a nuisance. However, knowing the signs and symptoms of a UTI will allow you to receive prompt medical attention and medicine that will be required. The most common symptoms include:

• A strong, frequent urge to urinate
• Little urination despite the urgency you felt
• Strong smelling urine
• Cloudy urine
• Red, pink, or brown colored urine (a sign that blood is present)
• Pelvic pain

Women who are pregnant and have any signs of a UTI need immediate attention. If you have ever wondered why you have to give a urine sample at every OBGYN visit, this is one of the main reasons why! Women who have already hit or gone through menopause often experience recurrent UTIs due to their reduced estrogen levels. As estrogen levels drop, vaginal dryness is a typical side effect, making urinary tract infections a common condition that many women suffer from. Topical hormone replacement therapy has been shown to reduce the recurrence of UTIs and can be prescribed.

If you are experiencing any symptoms of a urinary tract infection, please contact Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates, P.A. today. We are here to help foster women’s health.