Urinary Tract Infections also known as UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder or urethra and cause inflammation. UTIs are the second most common type of infections that people get and they affect millions of people every year.
Women are at higher risk of developing a UTI than men and 50-60% of women experience the bacterial infection in their llifetime. Women may be especially prone to UTIs because they have shorter urethras, which allow bacteria quick access to the bladder and this includes recurrent infections which can consist of two or more infections in six months, or three or more in one year.
The infection can be very painful and its most often symptom is excruciating pain and a burning sensation every time you need to pee and if not treated, it could spread and turn into a kidney infection forcing you to take stronger antibiotics.
So what are some of the reasons why you keep getting recurrent UTIs?
- Poor Hygiene
Wiping from front to back properly is very important. Doing so after urinating and after a bowel movement helps prevent bacteria in the anal region from spreading to the vagina and urethra. Also for the ladies, it is always advisable to use a clean toilet. This will help you prevent a UTI.
2. Sexual activity
Yes, this is sadly a reason why some people keep getting UTIs. This applies to both genders as during the intercourse,both parties are highly at risk of the infection in case one party is infected. Sex can increase the risk of infection by irritating the urethra or introducing bacteria into the urinary tract. Sometimes bacteria that is in or near the vaginal opening can be “shoved” into the urethra during penetration.
Remember how they told you to pee after sex? That actually helps flushing out bacteria, so don’t feel embarrassed when you want to pee after sex 😊
3. Not Drinking plenty of Liquids
Drinking water helps dilute you urine and ensures that you’ll urinate more frequently allowing the bacteria to be flushed from your system.
4. Some methods of birth control
Diaphragms and spermicides contain types of contraception that can contribute to bacterial growth and kill the good bacteria present in the genital area that works to protect from UTIs.
5. Lots of friction during sex
Don’t get me wrong, friction is good, actually, really good but too much friction with insufficient lubrication during sex can irritate the woman’s urethra and cause it to inflame. This can make someone more susceptible to an infection. Using small amounts water-based lubrication during sex can help reduce friction and the risk of getting infected.
6. Using products that irritate the urethra
Feminine deodorant sprays, powders,bath oils and liquids can irritate the urethra and vagina, increasing the odds of infection. Others may also alter vaginal flora and pH and ultimately result in a urinary tract infection.
