Urinary Tract Infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) can lead to burning while urinating and pelvic pain that’s so severe that relieving yourself can become overwhelmingly uncomfortable. Because a UTI can spread to your kidneys and become serious, it’s important to schedule an evaluation with Ryan Stratford, MD, MBA, FACOG, Kelly Kantartzis, MD, MS, FACOG, or Peter Jeppson, MD, FACOG at The Woman’s Center at the first sign of infection. You can conveniently book your urinary tract infection exam at this Mesa, Arizona-based practice (just east of Phoenix), by clicking on the online scheduler or by calling the office directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes a urinary tract infection?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) can affect any part of your urinary system, including your bladder, urethra, ureters, and kidneys. This painful infection occurs when bacteria gets into your urethra and starts multiplying in your bladder.

While both men and women struggle with urinary tract infections, women are more prone to UTIs due to anatomy. Women have a short urethra (as compared with men) and the urethra opening is very close to your vagina and anus.

Because of this, Escherichia coli (E. coli) from your gastrointestinal tract, as well as other bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract, can easily enter your urethra and turn into a UTI.

Your risk of suffering from a UTI further increases due to aging and changes that occur after menopause. The vagina becomes dry and thin and a
llows bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract to set up “shop” in the vagina placing you at higher risk for bladder infections. In addition, urinary tract changes occur with menopause that increases your risk of developing a UTI.

How do I know if I have a urinary tract infection?

Urinary tract infections don’t always cause symptoms, especially in the early stages. But as a UTI progresses, you may experience:

Strong and persistent urge to urinate (even if you recently relieved yourself)
Burning sensations while urinating
Passing small amounts of urine
Cloudy or cola-colored urine
Foul-smelling urine
Pelvic pain

If your urinary tract infection has progressed into your kidneys, you may also experience pain in your middle to upper back and flanks (near your kidneys), as well as nausea and vomiting. Before your UTI progresses, see how the team at The Woman’s Center can help.

Which urinary tract infection treatment do I need?

To determine the cause of your urinary tract infection, your physician may gather a urine sample or blood draw. Depending on the outcome of your lab results, you’re likely going to need a course of bacteria-specific antibiotics. But if UTIs seem to be a common and recurring issue, your dedicated physician at The Woman’s Center could recommend any of the following treatments:

Low-dose antibiotics for several months
Single-dose antibiotic after sexual intercourse
Vaginal estrogen therapy, if your UTIs are linked to menopause
Supplements
Evaluation and treatment of incomplete emptying of your bladder

Your urogynecologist also counsels you on lifestyle changes you can make to relieve urinary tract infection symptoms and prevent another infection. For instance, avoiding or limiting caffeine and alcohol, as well as drinking plenty of water, are all essential for soothing your bladder. Book your urinary tract infection evaluation at The Woman’s Center today. Schedule either online or over the phone.