Endometriosis & Urinary Tract Infections
Endometriosis is a condition in which uterine cells grow outside of the uterus. Urinary tract infection (UTI) is caused by bacterial proliferation in the urinary organs. Endometriosis can sometimes cause growths in the bladder or kidneys, increasing the chances of a UTI developing.
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Endometriosis Symptoms
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Endometriosis may cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe, with some women experiencing no symptoms at all. Common symptoms include severe menstrual cramps, excessive menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain and extreme fatigue.
UTI Symptoms
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UTI can present with a number of symptoms, most of which are relatively easy to identify and include burning urination, blood in the urine or fever. UTI symptoms that can mimic endometriosis include lower abdominal pain, painful intercourse and fatigue.
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Causes
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According to Veronica A. Ravnikar, M.D., in an article on HealthyWomen.org, endometrial implants can grow on the urinary organs and lead to frequent UTI, though this is rare. More common causes include inadequate water intake, improper hygiene practices and delaying urination. To date, the cause of endometriosis is not known.
Complications
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According to Mayo Clinic, the most common complication of endometriosis is infertility. Left untreated, a bladder infection can progress to a kidney infection, which can cause sepsis, renal failure and permanent kidney damage.
Prevention/Solution
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Drinking plenty of water, emptying your bladder immediately after intercourse and practicing good hygiene by wiping from front to back can help prevent a UTI. While there is no known prevention for endometriosis, symptoms may be controlled using over-the-counter or prescription painkillers, a heating pad and healthy lifestyle practices including proper diet and regular exercise.
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