Urinary Tract Infections

1374 Words6 Pages
Urinary Tract Infections Women are prone to many different kinds of gynecological conditions. They vary from cancer to menstrual cramps. Out of them all, nothing is more physically uncomfortable than a urinary tract infection. When a woman has it, she knows right away. It is a common form of infection amongst women so most know how to prevent it and treat it. “Approximately 11% of women report having a urinary tract infection each year,” (WebMD, 2009) and most of them will also have it again in the future. Treatment and prevention begins by knowing what a urinary tract infection is. The urinary tract is the system that makes urine and carries it out of your body. It includes your bladder and kidneys and the tubes that connect them. When bacteria get into the urethra, they can cause an infection to your bladder or kidneys. The most common type of infection for women is bladder infections which can be treated right away. There are multiple causes for a urinary tract infection. Usually, germs get into your system through the urethra. They can travel to your bladder or kidneys and cause an infection. Women have shorter urethras which makes it easier for bacteria to move up to their bladders. Another cause of a UTI is through having sex. Not keeping clean after sex can also cause bacteria to get into your system and cause an infection. Also, using a spermicide or a diaphragm during sex can also cause a UTI. Some women are more prone to bladder infections if they do not drink enough fluids, have diabetes, or are pregnant. Kidney stones or enlarges prostate glands also increase the risk of infection because they block the flow of urine from the bladder. Using feminine hygiene products that contain deodorant can also cause urinary tract infections despite their publicity in the media. As mentioned earlier, symptoms for a urinary tract infection appear quite soon.
Open Document