What You Need to Know About UTI: Infections in Women
What You Need to Know About UTI: Infections in Women
A urinary tract infection can occur in men and children, but it is most common in women. The reason this is true is because it is easier for infection-causing bacteria reach the bladder in women than in men. This is partly because of the shape of the urinary tract in women and also partly because of the close proximity of the urethra to the rectum in women. Because UTI is more common in females, there are certain steps a woman should take to help prevent this condition from occurring.
The infection can start out as a bothersome and painful infection, but it can develop into a serious and even life-threatening condition. So all women should take steps to prevent an infection from developing in the first place. All women should ensure that they drink plenty of fluids such as water and cranberry juice, as this helps to flush bacteria from the urinary tract. Women should avoid holding urine in, as this gives bacteria time to grow in the urinary tract. They should also wipe from front to back after using the restroom, urinate after having sex, and avoid using a diaphragm as birth control as a diaphragm can cause urine to not void fully which may allow the build up of bacteria.
Some women will develop this infection just once or twice in their lives while others seem to have them on a recurring basis. If you think you may have the signs of a UTI, take measures to get a urine test from your doctor. Then you have the choice to decide between homeopathic remedies or a round of prescription drugs prescribed by your doctor. Whichever treatment option you choose to take, take care to follow the treatment fully as an infection left untreated can grow and cause serious issues.