What is UTI?
A UTI is an infection in your urinary tract, which includes your kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. Women have a higher risk than men of developing a UTI, which can lead to unpleasant or painful urinary symptoms.
Simple UTI treatments are available at Advanced Obstetrics & Gynecology, LLC.
What are the symptoms of UTIs?
If you experience one or more of the following symptoms, you may have a UTI:
- Frequent urination
- A strong urge to urinate
- Cloudy urine
- Burning during urination
- Pelvic pain
- Strong-smelling urine
- Blood in your urine
- Pressure in your lower abdomen
You might not experience many symptoms with a UTI, especially in its early stages. Seeking treatment early on, however, helps prevent medical complications.
What are the risk factors for UTIs?
Risk factors associated with UTIs include:
- Being sexually active
- Being a woman
- Menopause
- Some types of birth control
- Urinary tract blockages
- Other urinary tract abnormalities
- A weak immune system
- Using a catheter
- Urinary procedures
- Wiping from back to front
If left untreated, urinary tract infections can lead to additional health problems, such as kidney damage, pregnancy complications, or life-threatening issues.
How are UTIs diagnosed?
To diagnose UTIs and possible complications, your provider reviews your medical history and symptoms. They analyze a sample of your urine and may recommend CT scans, MRIs, or other imaging procedures.
In some cases, your OB/GYN specialist might view the inside of your bladder and urethra using a thin, lighted tube called a cystoscope.
How are UTIs treated?
UTI treatment often involves taking antibiotics to fight your infection. Take such medications as prescribed, for a week or longer, even though UTI symptoms may clear up after a few days.
Your doctor might recommend vaginal estrogen therapy or MonaLisa Touch® laser treatment if you’re post-menopausal and suffer from vaginal dryness.
Lifestyle changes that help reduce your risk of UTI recurrence include drinking more water and avoiding diaphragms, spermicide-treated condoms, douches, and feminine powders.
Don’t live with recurrent UTIs and their symptoms when simple treatment options are available at Advanced Obstetrics & Gynecology, LLC. Call the office or book an appointment online at the first sign of unusual urinary problems.
