What is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can occur in any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. UTIs are most commonly caused by bacteria, specifically, a Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is a type of bacteria that normally lives in the colon.
Other bacteria causing UTIs, include; Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, Candida albicans, and others.
Causes of UTIs
Although pathogens are the root cause of UTIs there are certain factors that can cause urinary tract infections, these are;
- Intercourse
- Use of birth control methods
- Sex/Gender
- Urinary catheterization
- Being uncircumcised
- Weak immune system
- Diabetes
- Genetic
How does Intercourse cause UTIs?
Intercourse cause UTIs in several ways;
- During intercourse, bacteria from the anus or vaginal area can be pushed into the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine out of the body. If the bacteria reach the bladder, they can cause an infection.
- Intercourse can also cause irritation or trauma to the urethra, which can make it more susceptible to infection.
- When having intercourse, bacteria can also get inside the urethra if the woman is not properly lubricated.
- Intercourse can also cause changes in the normal bacteria found in the urinary tract, allowing harmful bacteria to thrive and cause infection.
Birth control methods can cause UTIs
Birth control methods such as spermicides and diaphragms can increase the risk of UTIs by altering the normal balance of bacteria in the urinary tract.
Spermicides are chemicals that are applied to the vagina before intercourse to kill sperm and prevent pregnancy. They can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina, creating an environment that is more conducive to the growth of harmful bacteria. This can increase the risk of UTIs by allowing bacteria to enter the urinary tract more easily.
Diaphragms are a type of barrier contraceptive that is inserted into the vagina before intercourse. They can also disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina and increase the risk of UTIs by trapping bacteria against the cervix and urethra.
In both cases, the irritation caused by the use of these methods can also increase the risk of UTIs. It is important to note that not all women will develop UTIs when using these methods, but those who have a history of UTIs or other urinary tract conditions may be more susceptible.
It’s also worth mentioning that other forms of birth control such as oral contraceptives and IUDs, do not increase the risk of UTIs.
Gender: Females are more prone
There are several factors that are making females more prone to UTIs than males, some of them are;
- The female urethra is shorter than the male urethra, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder and cause an infection.
- Additionally, the opening of the female urethra is closer to the anus, which can increase the risk of bacteria entering the urinary tract.
- Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in the male prostate fluid, secreted into the urethra during ejaculation. Zinc is present in high concentrations in the prostate fluid has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects and helps to protect the urinary tract from infection.
- Hormonal changes such as pregnancy and menopause can also make the urinary tract more susceptible to infection.
- Sexual activity can also increase the risk of UTIs in women as during intercourse, bacteria from the anus or vaginal area can be pushed into the urethra.
Urinary catheterization and UTIs
Urinary catheterization is a medical procedure in which a catheter is inserted into the bladder through the urethra to drain urine.
However, it can increase the risk of developing a UTI. The main reason is that it can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract when sterile techniques are not followed.
Additionally, it can cause irritation or trauma to the urethra, making it more susceptible to infection.
Being uncircumcised is a risk
Being uncircumcised can increase the risk of developing UTIs. The foreskin, which is the loose fold of skin that covers the head of the penis in uncircumcised men, can trap bacteria and other debris.
This can lead to an overgrowth of bacteria and an increased risk of infection. When bacteria accumulate under the foreskin, causing inflammation and infection, called balanitis. This can cause pain, itching, and redness. If left untreated, the bacteria can spread to the urinary tract, and UTI ensues.
The weak immune system, a habitat for UTIs
A weakened immune system can increase the risk of developing a UTI. When the immune system is not functioning properly, it can be more difficult for the body to fight off infections. This can make it more likely for bacteria to multiply and cause an infection in the urinary tract.
Additionally, people who have weakened immune systems, such as those who have HIV or AIDS, may be more susceptible to UTIs as they are more vulnerable to infections in general.
Diabetes can increase the risk of UTIs
Diabetes can increase the risk of developing a UTI in several ways:
- High blood sugar levels can lead to an overgrowth of bacteria in the urinary tract, making it more susceptible to infection.
- Diabetes can also cause changes in the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to fight off infections.
- Diabetes can also cause damage to the nerves, which can affect the muscles in the bladder and make it more difficult to completely empty the bladder, this can lead to urine retention and increase the risk of infection.
- People with diabetes may also experience a condition called diabetic cystopathy, which is a condition that affects the bladder and increases the risk of UTIs.
It’s important to note that not all people with diabetes will develop UTIs, but those who have diabetes are at an increased risk.
Genetic factors that cause UTIs
Genetic factors can play a role in the development of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Research suggests that certain genetic variations may increase a person’s susceptibility to UTIs.
One example is a genetic variation in the gene that encodes for the receptor for alpha-hemolysin (HlyA), a toxin produced by certain strains of E.coli. This variation has been associated with a higher risk of recurrent UTIs in women.
Another example is a genetic variation in the gene that encodes for the protein intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), which is involved in the inflammatory response. This variation has been associated with a higher risk of UTIs in men.
Additionally, certain inherited genetic disorders such as sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, and spinal cord injuries can affect the urinary tract and increase the risk of UTIs.
Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections
There are several steps that can be taken to help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs):
- Practice good hygiene: Clean the area around the urethra (the opening through which urine exits the body) and the anus before and after using the toilet. Women should wipe from front to back to reduce the risk of spreading bacteria from the anus to the urethra.
- Urinate after intercourse: This can help flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urinary tract during intercourse.
- Stay well-hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.
- Wear breathable clothing: Avoid tight clothing, especially underwear, which can trap moisture and bacteria against the skin, increasing the risk of infection.
- Avoid holding in urine: When you hold in urine, the bacteria that are normally flushed out of the urinary tract can grow and multiply, increasing the risk of infection.
Home remedies to treat UTIs
There are several home remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) and may help to speed up recovery.
- Drinking plenty of water: Staying well-hydrated can help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.
- Cranberry juice: Cranberries contain compounds called proanthocyanidins, which may help to prevent bacteria from attaching to the urinary tract.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C can acidify the urine, which can help to prevent bacteria from growing.
