Even mild UTIs can present with uncomfortable symptoms.

• A strong and persistent urge to urinate. One of the most common signs of a UTI is the sensation of urgency. The urge to urinate can return just moments after emptying the bladder.
• This is a pain or stinging sensation while urinating.
• Aching in the pelvis, back, or sides of the abdomen.
• Change in the odour of the urine.
• Cloudy or bloody urine.

Severe UTIs – infections of the upper urinary tract including the ureters or kidneys – may cause these symptoms:

• Fever, chills
• Nausea or vomiting
• Back pains

There are many serious medical conditions that are associated with these symptoms. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, please call your doctor right away.

If you do have a kidney infection, you will need to seek immediate treatment.

In addition to women who have recently increased their level sexual activity, certain types of women are more likely to contract a UTI, including women who:

• Are obese
• Had several vaginal births
• Have diabetes
• Have a personal history of UTIs
• Are post-menopause. Menopause occurs when a woman’s body decreases the production of oestrogen, which can weaken the tissues surrounding the urethra and leave it vulnerable to infection

Pregnant women can get UTIs as well. If you are pregnant and believe you have a UTI, seek medical help right away.

A urinary tract infection could cause complications for your developing baby.

The test for a UTI is called a urinalysis. Your doctor will ask you to provide a urine sample, which will be examined in a laboratory, the doctor may also order a culture of your urine sample which can show the particular types of bacteria present.

Most urinary tract infections can be treated quickly and easily with antibiotics, and fortunately, symptoms usually disappear within two days.When taking antibiotics, it’s important to take all of the doses prescribed, even if you are feeling better before you run out of your medication. Failing to take the entire prescription as recommended could result in a relapse of the infection. Upper urinary tract infections that affect the kidneys are much more serious and usually require a stay in the hospital.

Your antibiotics may be administered intravenously while medical professionals monitor your health.

Having more than two UTIs in a year qualifies as a recurrent infection. Recurrent infections are usually associated with sexual habits, such as:

• Having sex at an early age
• Frequent intercourse
• Sex with a new partner
• Using spermicides or a diaphragm

If you have recurrent UTIs, talk to your doctor about how you can reduce your risk. You may need to switch your method of contraception or practice better hygiene before, during, and after sex. It may feel uncomfortable to talk to a doctor or one of our Consultants about your sexual activity however please be rest assured he/she is a trained professional and a specialist in this area to help you stay healthy.

London Obs & Gynae Clinic recommend several behaviours that you can try at home to decrease your risk of developing a UTI. Some helpful tips include:

• Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom to avoid the spread of bacteria.
• Empty your bladder at least once every three hours, and as soon as you feel the need.
• Empty your bladder before and after having sex.
• Wash your genitals and the skin surrounding your anus with soap and water, and avoid using douches, sprays, or powders.
• Wear cotton underwear.
• Stay well hydrated throughout the day to flush your system.
• Cranberry juice or cranberry pills may aid in preventing UTIs, but the effect is not well understood.
• Oestrogen therapy can help prevent UTIs in women who are going through menopause.