You can experience urinary tract infections through various factors like your sexual activity. However, Park Avenue Urogynecology services can help reduce or eliminate UTI infections through special medical treatments. The specialists can diagnose your problem and offer the most suitable treatment.
Suppressed immune system
A suppressed immune system increases your chances of contracting a UTI infection because your body cannot fight off common and normal infections. It is characterized by frequent infections with severe symptoms leaving you very weak.
Common conditions that can weaken your immune system include HIV/AIDS, type 1 diabetes, and autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Sexual activity
Practicing safe sex can reduce your likelihood of getting a UTI from a sexual encounter. Although you cannot get a UTI from your partner, having sex can worsen existing diseases. Thrusting during sex can push bacteria up your urethra and lead to a severe case of urinary tract infection.
It is important to use protective measures like condoms when you have sex. If you are on treatment for a UTI, consider abstaining from sex until you heal completely. Take your medication as per your doctor’s prescription.
Menopause
The estrogen hormone decrease can make you susceptible to urinary tract infections. Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to alleviate the symptoms. You can reduce the infection likelihood by taking showers instead of baths.
Symptoms
Pelvic pain is a significant symptom of a UTI infection. Other symptoms include the following:
- Burning sensation during urination
- Strong urge to urinate
- Blood in your urine
If you suspect a urinary tract infection, note your urine color and traces of blood in your urine. Although your specialist will run diagnostic testing, your symptoms will help you get the most suitable treatment.
Treatment options
The primary type of treatment for urinary tract infections is medications. Your urogynecologist can prescribe medications you can take until your infection clears up. It’s important to stop having sex during the treatment period.
You can also receive antibiotic medications that you can take for several months during a treatment session. Your specialist will discuss the details of the treatment and how many sessions you might need.
Complications if left untreated
If you don’t treat a UTI infection, you might cause permanent kidney damage. Your infection might travel up your urethra and damage your kidneys. Prolonged infections can cause serious damage that might be unresponsive to treatment.
Prevention
You can prevent UTI infections by taking care of yourself and maintaining high levels of personal hygiene. The following tips will help you reduce the likelihood of contracting a UTI.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids to help with waste removal.
- Wipe from front to back. If your wipe from your anus to the vagina, you might transfer bacteria to your urethra, leading to a UTI.
- Urinate immediately after sex. The action might help with the flushing of bacteria through urine.
- Empty your bladder as soon as you have the urge. Emptying your bladder often and in a relaxed manner will help strengthen your urethral muscles.
If you have a urinary tract infection, visit Park Avenue Urogynecology for treatment. You will meet experienced and compassionate specialists and staff ready to offer customized treatment depending on your condition and symptoms. Call or schedule your appointment online today.
