UNDERSTANTING URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS

The urinary tract makes, stores, and passes urine. It includes the kidneys, bladder and urethra. A urinary tract infection is a bacterial infection anywhere in the urinary tract.

Symptoms of a urinary tract infection include; pain or stinging on urination, a frequent or urgent need to urinate, urine that smells bad, looks cloudy or is reddish in color, pressure in your lower belly, or feeling tired and feverish. If you feel you have a urinary tract infection see your doctor as soon as possible. If left untreated a urinary tract infection can lead to other complications.

Your doctor will test for an infection through a urine sample. He will ask you to urinate in a specimen cup. This requires care so as not to get outside bacteria in the cup and get a false reading on the test. The doctor or nurse will tell you how to properly obtain the sample. If a urinary tract infection is found, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics. Be sure to take all medicine the doctor gives you. If you don't the infection may come back worse or your body may not respond to the medication in the future.

There are steps you can take to prevent a urinary tract infection. Always urinate when you have to; do not "hold it". Urine sitting in the bladder too long will accumulate and grow bacteria. Drink water every day. Urinate before and after sex. Always wipe from front to back. Clean your vagina and anus daily. Avoid douches and feminine hygiene sprays. Use of spermicides can lead to urinary tract infections. Wear underwear with a cotton crotch. You may still get an infection after following these steps but the chances are much less.