A urinary tract infection, also called a UTI, occurs when bacteria develops inside the bladder, kidneys, ureters or urethra. Children of any age can develop an infection in the urinary tract. Kids Health.org states that eight percent of girls and two percent of boys will have had a urinary tract infection by age five. A child may have medical reasons for developing a UTI, such as a malformed kidney; however many non-medical situations can also cause UTIs in children.
Bubble Bath and Soap
Both boys and girls are susceptible to urinary tract infection from bubble bath products and harsh soaps that come into contact with genitals. These products irritate the urethra and allow bacteria to enter the urinary tract. Avoiding the use of bath additives and rinsing genitals with clean water immediately after washing can prevent urinary tract infection.
Clothing
Tight fitting clothing or clothing that does not allow good air circulation can increase the risk of urinary tract infection. Poor clothing choices may hold heat and moisture against genital skin and allow bacteria to grow. Kids Health.org suggests that girls wear cotton underwear instead of underwear made with synthetic material to allow good air circulation to the skin. Both boys and girls should wear underwear and pants that are correctly sized and allow for easy movement.
Poor Hygiene
Poor hygiene practices can increase the chance of urinary infection in children. Young girls may transfer bacteria from the anus into the urethra by wiping improperly after using the restroom. Family Doctor.org suggests teaching girls to wipe from front to back after urinating or having a bowel movement to prevent bacteria transfer.
Uncircumcised boys may develop urinary infections by not cleansing the penile foreskin often enough. Bacteria build-up inside the foreskin can enter the urethra. Proper and frequent foreskin cleansing can help reduce the risk of infection.
Holding Urine
Holding urine inside the bladder gives bacteria time to multiply and infect the urinary tract. Children may become busy or distracted and hold in urine despite the need to use the restroom. Medline Plus advises teaching children to urinate several times per day when the urge arises, as frequent urination flushes bacteria from the bladder and helps prevent infection.
