How to Get a Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that strikes the urinary system. This system is divided into two parts: the upper urinary tract (kidneys and ureters) and the lower urinary tract (urinary bladder and urethra). Any part of the urinary tract is vulnerable to infection when bacteria enter the system. A bladder infection is usually the start of the condition. Patients may have fever, nausea, pain and discomfort while urinating, but most cases are really not that serious when treated immediately. However, if treatment is not administered right away, the infection can spread into the upper urinary tract---which could cause permanent damage to the kidneys and even be fatal.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Allow bacteria to enter the urinary system. Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria is the most common cause of UTI. These bacteria live in the colon and anus. Wiping from the back to the front after defecating can cause bacteria to enter into the opening of the urethra located in front of the vagina. Once inside, bacteria then multiply and start the spread of infection.

2. Have sexual intercourse. Female anatomy is the reason why women are more prone to UTI than men. During intercourse, germs that are present in the vagina can be transferred into the urethra through the motion of the male genitalia.

3. Use a diaphragm for birth control. Ill-fitted diaphragms (too large) can cause unwanted pressure in the urethra, preventing the bladder from emptying fully and increasing the risk of urinary tract infection.

4. Wait for a long period of time to urinate. Waiting too long to discharge urine can cause the bladder to overly stretch its wall and weaken its muscle. When the bladder is too weak to contract, it may not empty completely, increasing the risk of having UTI.

5. Get pregnant. A growing uterus is one of the reasons pregnant women are susceptible to UTI. As the uterus grows, it presses the bladder, preventing a complete discharge of urine. The amount of urine that stays in the bladder for a long period of time is likely the source of infection. Hormonal changes during pregnancy also cause changes in the urinary tract, making women more prone to UTI.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wipe from front to back after a bowel movement to prevent bacteria in the anal area from entering the vagina and urethra. Urinate immediately after having sexual intercourse to help avoid letting any form of microorganism enter the urethra.

References

• National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC)
• IncontinenceNetwork.com

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on 8/6/2009 Wow, so interesting, so different, I've never heard of this before.