By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant
The burning, pain and urinary urgency caused by a urinary tract infection is unpleasant though easily treated with prescription medication.
But why do women experience UTIs more than men and what can women do to prevent them.
Rachel Houghtling, OB-GYN with Rochester Regional Health, said that anatomy is the main reason that women suffer from UTIs at a greater rate than men.
“The urethra — the tube that carries urine out of the body — is shorter in women and sits closer to the anus, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder,” she said.
In addition, women who use spermicide or a diaphragm for contraception also have increased risk, as do those with a weak pelvic floor, often occurring after pregnancy.
Women who are pregnant or menopausal tend to also experience more UTIs.
Being sexually active, having kidney stones or taking medication that causes sugar to pass into the urine also raises risk. Houghtling advises patients with recurring UTIs to talk with a healthcare provider about chronic conditions that contribute such as diabetes or other underlying factors.
“Sometimes changing medications can help,” Houghtling said. “For UTIs linked to sex, a one-time antibiotic dose after intercourse may be an option. In postmenopausal women, vaginal estrogen can reduce risk.”
She also encourages patients to prevent UTIs by taking the following steps:
• “Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to help flush bacteria from the urinary tract.
• “Practice good hygiene. Consider wiping from front to back after using the toilet.
• “Urinate after sex. This can help clear out bacteria introduced during intercourse.
• “Try cranberry products. Some people find that unsweetened cranberry juice or supplements may lower their risk, though research is still ongoing.
• “During pregnancy, attend regular prenatal visits, since UTIs can cause complications if left untreated.”
In addition to these steps, it may also help to “wear cotton underwear and full briefs,” as advised by physician Jordana Gilman, a board certified OB-GYN and assistant professor of clinical OB-GYN with Highland Women’s Health. “Walking around in a wet bathing suit can contribute to an infection. Don’t douche. It’s not necessary for your health.”
Douching can upset the natural flora of the vagina and cause an overgrowth of bacteria that can irritate the urethra. Taking antibiotics can also cause irritation that may increase risk of UTI.
During intercourse, partners should use “good hand hygiene and body hygiene,” Gilman said.
Many older adults afraid of urinary leaking will eschew drinking water. However, that’s often how they end up with a UTI. Drinking plenty of water — typically the body weight in ounces daily — can help lower the risk of a UTI. Sipping small amounts of water more frequently can help prevent accidents.
“If they have bladder leakage or they’re not emptying the bladder or have a divot in the urethra, that can be a structural reason they are having UTIs,” Gilman said. “It can be treated with more estrogen cream and some need a procedure to correct that. Drink water and come see your doctor if you’re worried.”