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7 Reasons Why Women Get More UTIs Than Men

• 15 Jul,2023
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Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most frequent issue nowadays. Women are up to 30 times more likely to get such conditions than men because the urinary system ends in one of the body's two waste orifices and comes into contact with many bacteria. This issue arises when a different kind of bacterium enters the tract from the wrong end. In this blog, Dr. Niren Rao, a urologist in Delhi at Delhi Urology Hospital, discusses why women get more Urinary tract infections than men and more details on this topic.

What is a urinary tract infection?

When faecal bacteria reach the urethra, the tube through which urine is discharged from the bladder, it results in urinary tract infection . Bacteria introduced through se-xual contact can potentially enter the urethra and can cause a medical condition or urinary tract infection.

Urinary tract infections can be classified into three types: 

The first is urethritis, which is an inflammation of the urethra. The second type of infection is cystitis, which happens when an infection spreads from the urethra to the bladder. Although these are the most frequent and easily treated disorders, an infection can spread from the bladder to the kidneys. Toxins in the blood are filtered by the kidneys and sent to the bladder for collection. The third is pyelonephritis, a more serious and uncommon kidney infection.

What are the symptoms of  urinary tract infection? 

A urinary tract infection can cause the following symptoms:

• Urgency that is both intense and long-lasting
• Urination causes burning
• Small amounts of urination regularly
• Cloudy urine, or urine which is red, pink, or brownish
• Quite odorous urine
• For women, pelvic discomfort, particularly in the centre of the pelvis and around the area of the pubic bone.

If one is looking for an effective urinary tract infection treatment in Delhi, one can contact urologist Dr. Niren Rao. He has vast experience in treating all types of urological issues and infections. One can get in touch with him to get effective treatment for all types of urological issues.

Here are the top 7 reasons why women get more UTIs than men.

1. Anatomical structure

UTI occurs when Escherichia coli bacteria from the outer genitals and the area around the anus invade the urinary tract and enter the bladder. E. coli bacteria are naturally found in these areas, putting women at greater risk. Bacteria can quickly enter the urinary system because the urethra that transports urine from the bladder is too short. The contamination of the perineum and urethral areas is the most likely cause of a urinary infection in women.

2. Se-xual activities

Many women develop cystitis after becoming se-xually active or meeting a new partner, as intercourse can transfer bacteria strains into the vag-inal and urethral areas. Furthermore, bacteria remain in the urinary tract when women do not urinate immediately after se-x. It can cause them to multiply, resulting in infection.

Attention to proper cleanliness, particularly when se-xually active, can help women avoid UTIs. Urinating after intercourse and regular cleaning of the area are habits that can lower the risk of infection.

3. Use of birth control methods

Particular types of birth control for women, such as spermicidal drugs and diaphragms, make women more susceptible to bladder infections. Most spermicides contain a hazardous substance linked to an increased risk of urinary infection in women. On the other hand, the diaphragm might damage the areas near the bladder, making it accessible for bacteria to attach to the inner linings.

4. Genetics

There is some evidence that genetics might predispose women to UTIs. A thorough investigation of one's family history can reveal a close relationship between family members who suffer from recurrent bladder infections. It's because they have a greater density of particular carbohydrate receptors, which specific strains of E. coli may cling to.

Unfortunately, there isn't much a woman can do if they feel their urinary infection is caused by heredity. Also, get medical attention immediately to lessen the severity of the UTI symptoms and effectively manage the disease.

5. Menopause

Women become more susceptible to UTIs as they age. Bacteria in the urine, commonly known as bacteriuria, affects 10% to 15% of women aged 65 to 70 and 20% to 50% of women aged 80 and beyond. Suppose a woman experiences a bladder infection, such as cystitis or kidney issues, during premenopausal. In that case, the condition is significantly more likely to recur throughout the menopausal and postmenopausal stages. Various factors could be present here, including heredity, hormone changes, and problems with other ageing-related problems.

6. More sensitive skin

The external urethral meatus in women is primarily mucosa, the wet tissue that lines the inside of the vagina. In contrast to its male counterparts, this skin is thinner and more sensitive than the majority of the skin on the body. As a result, the female urethra is more easily damaged and inflamed. The inflamed skin provides an environment for bacteria to potentially thrive and grow before ascending the short distance up the urethra to the bladder.

7. Pregnancy

Pregnant women are also more likely to get UTIs. Severe infections can be harmful to both women and their babies. If a woman suspects she has UTI, she should contact her obstetrician immediately to treat the condition as soon as possible.

Prevention Tips

• Even with impeccable hygiene, women are generally more prone to urinary tract infections than men. However, there are some hygiene tips that women may adopt to help prevent UTIs.
• Everyone is aware that wiping from back to front after urinating might result in a UTI caused by bacteria such as E. coli. However, wiping from front to back might also spread bacteria. In contrast, consider the blotting technique. Gently blot the urethra, or top region of the vag-ina, with clean, folded toilet paper (ideally undyed and odourless). Blotting, instead of wiping, keeps bacteria out of the urethra.
• Baths have also been blamed for UTIs. While filthy and unclean bath water can cause a UTI, there are ways to prevent it. If a woman enjoys soaking in the tub, she should shower afterward to avoid irritation and possible infections.
• Do not use other feminine hygiene products.
• After intercourse, use the toilet to help remove any bacteria from the urethra.
• Regularly wash the front and back with soap and water.
• Drink plenty of water to urge women to urinate regularly and flush away bacteria.
• When a woman needs to use the bathroom, her bladder should be empty.

What are the treatment options for treating urinary tract infections in women?

For urinary infection treatment in Delhi, the following treatment options are offered at Delhi Urology Hospital:

• Antibiotics are typically prescribed to eliminate the infection. The choice of antibiotic depends on factors such as the suspected bacteria and any known allergies. 
• Over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended to alleviate discomfort or pain associated with UTIs. 
• Urinary analgesics may be prescribed to relieve pain, burning, or urgency during urination. 

Dr. Niren Rao, a urologist in Delhi, may guide measures to prevent UTIs in the future. These may include proper hygiene practices and certain lifestyle changes.

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