Urinary Tract Infection or UTI is recognised to be one of the most commonly acquired ailments and is more prevalent in women than in men. UTI is discomforting and can annoy a sufferer for all day and night.
UTI is a common bacterial infection that affects the entire urinary system. This infection is caused when bacteria enter the urethra. After entry, bacterial colonies grow and multiply. These bacteria will then invade the bladder and then later on, the kidney.
Signs of UTI include feelings of pain or burning sensation when urinating, cloudy urine, increased urge to urinate with limited generation of urine, smelly urine, and mild pain in the lower stomach. For some women, nausea and chills might also be experienced.
These bacteria responsible for UTI include E. coli, Staphylococcus, Klebsiella, and Enterococci. These bacteria might invade the urethra from the bowel that colonise the skin near the rectum and vagina, or from the environment which can gain entry through the vagina.
Here are the common causes of UTI we found as we scoured the web for answers:
1. Sexual Intercourse
The most common cause of urinary tract infection in women is sexual intercourse. Women are more prone to infection during an intercourse due to women’s anatomy (urethra is closer to vagina, and also the anus). During sex, the bacteria from the vagina gain easy access into the urethra. Also, infection can also arise from bacteria from the partner’s sex organ. So wash before and after sex, it can greatly help prevent UTI.
2.Poor Hygiene
Bacteria loves moist environments. So shower frequently and change your undergarments often to avoid favourable conditions for bacterial growth.
