A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that occurs anywhere in the urinary tract, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. UTIs are most common in the bladder and urethra, which are the lower parts of the urinary tract.UTIs are caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract through the urethra. The most common bacteria that cause UTIs is E. coli, which is a bacterium that lives in the intestines.
Here are 7 reasons why women are prone to urine tract infection (UTI)
1) Shorter Urethra
One of the main reasons why women are more likely to get UTIs than men is because of their shorter urethras. The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the bladder to outside the body. It is also the opening where bacteria can enter the urinary tract. The average female urethra is 1-2 inches long, while the average male urethra is 6 inches long. This means that bacteria have a shorter distance to travel to reach the bladder in women because their urethras are closer to the source of bacteria, which is the rectum.
2) More sensitive skin
Another reason why women are more likely to get UTIs is because the opening of their urethras is made of delicate, moist tissue. This tissue is thinner and more sensitive than the skin on the outside of the body, which makes it easier for bacteria to irritate the skin and cause infection which can create a breeding ground for bacteria.
3) Closer proximity to rectum
The female urethra is located closer to the rectum, which is where bacteria such as E. coli live. E. coli is the most common cause of UTIs.
4) Sexual Contact
Sexual intercourse can push bacteria from the vagina into the urethra.
5) Certain types of contraception
Using Spermicide and diaphragms for birth control can irritate the vagina and make it more susceptible to infection because they push against the urethra, making it more difficult to completely empty your bladder. The urine that remains is more likely to grow bacteria that can cause infection.
6) Menopause
Estrogen levels decline during menopause, the vaginal tissue becomes thinner and more prone to infection.
7) Pregnancy
Pregnant women are more likely to get UTIs due to hormonal changes and increased pressure on the bladder.
Tips for Prevention
- Blotting Technique
Wipe front to back after urinating as this helps to prevent bacteria from the rectum to enter the urethra. - Baths
Baths are sometimes blamed for UTIs, but this is usually only the case if the water is dirty or soapy. If you do enjoy taking baths, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of getting a UTI:
– Rinse off in the shower after your bath. This will help to remove any soap residue or bacteria from your body.
– Avoid using bubble baths or other harsh chemicals in your bathwater. These products can irritate your skin and make it more susceptible to infection.
– Don’t soak in the bath for too long. Aim to bathe for no more than 15 minutes at a time.
Consume dietary supplements
If your regular diet lacks essential nutrients that support overall immune and urinary tract health, supplements can help fill those gaps. For instance, Byherbs Uri-Care Plus is a highly effective supplement formulated to promote urinary tract health and prevent UTIs.
It harnesses the power of natural ingredients including pomegranate and cranberry, known for their potent antimicrobial properties. These ingredients work synergistically to support a healthy urinary tract, making this supplement an excellent choice for UTI prevention.
- Avoid douching and feminine hygiene products
Douching and feminine hygiene products can irritate the vagina and make it more susceptible to infection. - Go to the bathroom after sex
This helps to flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra during intercourse. - Drink plenty of fluids
This helps to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract. - Empty your bladder completely when you urinate
This helps to prevent bacteria from accumulating in the bladder.
Early treatment can help prevent the infection from spreading to the kidneys.