Why do women suffer more from urinary tract infections?
Urinary tract infections are a serious problem. Although this condition affects both men and children, women are more susceptible to it due to their anatomy. In women, the urethra is shorter, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. According to the Brazilian Society of Urology, up to 80% of women may experience at least one episode of cystitis in their lifetime, and of these, 20 to 50% may develop recurrent urinary tract infections, that is, when the patient reports three occurrences in a year or two in six months.
And be careful: failing to treat it or treating it improperly can even damage your kidneys. A urinary tract infection (UTI) manifests in three different ways: when bacteria multiply in the bladder, it is called cystitis; if these microorganisms invade the urethra, it is known as urethritis; and when the infection is not treated properly, it can spread to the kidneys.
It is worth noting that, in addition to anatomical factors, other factors increase the risk of changes in the vaginal flora. According to the Brazilian Society of Infectious Diseases, this imbalance may be associated with various factors, such as pregnancy, hormones, diabetes, immunosuppression, and genetics. Chronic diseases and frequent sexual activity also have the potential to increase the risk of developing UTIs.
The earlier the diagnosis, the lower the chances that the infection will cause other problems or even progress to sepsis—the dreaded systemic infection. A severe infection affecting the kidneys can lead to acute loss of kidney function or cause scarring of these organs, which can also lead to loss of function in the future.
Therefore, it is important to be aware of the early symptoms that are already known: frequent urge to urinate with little urine output, pain, a burning sensation, and blood in the urine.
To prevent the spread of bacteria, here are some steps you can take in your daily routine:
. Drink plenty of water. The fluid helps flush microorganisms out of the urethra and bladder
. Urinate frequently. Holding urine in the bladder for long periods is a major contraindication
. Urinating after sexual intercourse helps flush out bacteria from the urinary tract
. Be extra careful about personal hygiene. Wash your hands before and after using the restroom
. Whenever possible, wash your genital area with soap and water. But don’t overdo it: excessive washing can disrupt the balance of the genital flora, which is important for protecting the body
. Avoid underwear that is too tight or that traps heat and moisture, as this promotes the growth of bacteria
. Change your sanitary pads frequently to prevent bacterial growth
Changing your habits can help prevent bigger problems. Take care of yourself!
Sources:
https://fug.edu.br/repositorio/2019-1/Farmacia/FAR%201%202019.1-convertido.pdf
https://www.saopaulo.sp.gov.br/spnoticias/mulheres-sao-mais-suscetiveis-a-contrair-infeccao-urinaria/
http://www.acm.org.br/revista/pdf/artigos/162.pdf
https://www.scielo.br/j/ramb/a/sWyCf86BdcR5vQMnBPmSqzQ/?format=pdf&lang=pt
https://portaldaurologia.org.br/publico/doencas/cistite-de-repeticao/