Contracting a urinary tract infection is a relatively simple process to have, as bacteria residing in the genital, anal, and vaginal regions can infiltrate the urethra and trigger an infection by migrating to the bladder by any means.
This occurrence can transpire during sexual activity, where the introduction of bacteria from your partner’s genitals, anus, fingers, or sexual aids [Toys] can lead to the bacteria being pushed into your urethra.
We have analyzed everything you need to know about urinary tract infections.
What is a urinary tract infection?
The urinary tract is an infection of the urinary system which affects a large number of individuals yearly. It can involve any part of the urinary system, including the ureters, kidney, bladder and urethra.
The human kidney creates urine [pee] that takes out excess water and unwanted product from the body. Infection arises when bacteria from the human digestive tract enter the urinary tract and causes infection called urinary tract infection.
What causes a urinary tract infection?
Urinary tract infection occurs when a bacteria called Escherichia coli [E.coli] goes through the urethra and enters the urinary tract, spreading into the bladder.
UTIs can also be caused by some sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. Sometimes the powerhouse fails and the defense system which is the urinary system fails to protect, allowing bacteria to grow in numbers.
Furthermore, there are many risk factors that can increase the chance of having UTIs, include:
- Sexual activities
- Female anatomy
- Menopause
- Certain birth control
- Urinary tract abnormalities
- Week immune system
How to treat urinary tract infection
Urinary infection can be treated by following good hygiene and taking drugs to stop the infection. Here are some tips on how to treat UTIs
- Antibiotics: These are common treatments used for the cure of UTIs widely. They are many antibiotics which depend on the type of bacteria that is causing such infection and its severity. The doctor will prescribe the type of antibiotics and mode of intake.
- Pain relief: Having UTIs can cause pain to an individual, but with the use of pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen such pains from UTIs can be managed well.
- Hydration: Drinking of plenty water is considered a great advantage which can help flush bacteria out of the urinary tract.
How does a woman get a urinary tract infection?
The probability of UTI development is higher in women as compared to men because of their anatomical structure of them. This is because the female urethra is shorter and situated nearer to the anus, which facilitates bacteria to infiltrate the urinary tract due to the closeness. Additionally, sexual activity can elevate the risk of UTIs in females more than in males due to the relativeness of the urethra and anus.
How does a man get a urinary tract infection?
UTIs can also affect men. Typically, UTIs in men arise due to an underlying medical condition, such as a kidney stone, enlarged prostate, a blockage in the urinary tract and weak immune systems. Men who practice unprotected anal sex are also at a heightened risk of contracting a UTIs. Avoid the use of a urinary catheter.