Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common bacterial infection that can affect any part of the urinary system, including the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys. In women, UTIs are most commonly caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and travel up into the bladder. This can happen during sexual intercourse, when bacteria from the vagina or rectum are pushed into the urethra. Other risk factors for UTIs in women include having a weak immune system, using a diaphragm or cervical cap for birth control, and having a history of UTIs.
UTIs can be a nuisance, but they can also be serious if they are not treated promptly. Symptoms of a UTI can include pain or burning during urination, increased frequency of urination, urgency to urinate, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine. If you think you may have a UTI, it is important to see a doctor right away so that you can be treated with antibiotics.
