Are women are more prone to getting bladder infections?

Is it true that women are more prone to getting bladder infections?

Most urinary tract infections are caused by E. Coli bacterium that is usually found in the gastro-intestinal tract. The urinary tract is composed: the kidneys which produce the urine, the bladder that collects the urine and the ureters or urethra that transport the urine.

Bacteria is not normally found in urine, however, it can easily enter the urinary tract. Females are more likely to develop urinary tract infections because the urethra is shorter in females and closer to the anus. Therefore, the bacteria have a shorter distance to travel up into the bladder than in males. Urinary tract infections do also occur in males.

Males tend to develop urinary tract infections when their prostate is enlarged. When the prostate is enlarged, the free flow of urine out of the bladder is affected and bacteria are more likely to grow. Diabetics are also prone to getting urinary tract infections as they tend to have sugar in their urine allowing an environment for bacteria to grow.

Symptoms that may indicate that you have a urinary tract infection include:

• Pain or burning when passing urine
• Strong persistent urge to urinate
• Foul smelling or cloudy or bloody urine
• Difficulty passing urine
• Itching in the area of the urethra
• Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills
• Pain or discomfort in the lower back

You should consult your health care provider if you have any of the symptoms listed. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the kidneys and cause damage. Urinary tract infections are treated with antibiotics.

You can prevent urinary tract infections by:

• Wiping from front to back after passing urine or having a bowel movement
• Take the time to fully empty your bladder when you need to go
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Avoid bubble baths and strong soaps that may cause irritation
• Pass urine as soon as possible after sexual intercourse

Practicing good urinary hygiene can help prevent urinary tract infections.

For more information about urinary tract infections, or for available programs and services, contact Health Link Alberta where nurses are available 24-7 to provide health advice and information. Call 1-866-408-LINK (5465) or 780-408-LINK (Edmonton area) or 403-943-LINK (Calgary area).