The kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra together make up the urinary system. The Mayo Clinic says a urinary tract infection primarily affects the lower part of the urinary tract--the bladder and urethra. Women are more likely than men to have recurrent UTIs, which are uncomfortable, painful and annoying.
Development
There are two kinds of urinary tract infections--cystitis and urethritis. Cystitis, an infection of the bladder, develops from E. coli, according to the Mayo Clinic. E. coli is a bacterium commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract. Simple anatomy is a factor. "All women are susceptible to cystitis because of their anatomy--specifically, the close proximity of the urethra to the anus and the short distance from the urethral opening to the bladder," the Mayo Clinic says. When E. coli enter the bladder, an infection can result. Urethritis, an infection of the urethra, often develops from the spread of bacteria from the anus to the urethra. In addition, because of the urethra's proximity to the vagina, sexually transmitted diseases such as herpes, gonorrhea and chlamydia, can cause urethritis, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Susceptibility
Women are more susceptible to a UTI because of three main factors: anatomy, sexual activity and menopause. Intestinal bacteria can easily spread to the urinary tract, according to MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Bacteria from the vagina can also spread to the urinary tract after sexual activity. Additionally, hormonal changes that take place during menopause make a woman more susceptible to urinary tract infections.
Symptoms and Complications
Women who develop UTIs typically have cloudy or bloody urine that may have a foul or strong odor, according to MedlinePlus. They may also experience a painful or burning sensation when urinating. Other symptoms may include pressure or cramping in the lower abdomen or back, low fever and a strong urge to urinate frequently.
An untreated UTI may lead to a life-threatening blood infection, termed sepsis, according to MedlinePlus. Sepsis is more likely to occur in very young and very old adults. A UTI may also affect the kidneys, causing damage, scarring or infection.
Treatment
A UTI is usually treated with antibotics. Symptoms generally subside a few days after a woman begins taking the antibiotic. The Mayo Clinic cautions that the full course must be taken to ensure the infection is completely eliminated.
Prevention
Hygene and lifestyle changes may help prevent UTIs. For example, women should use sanitary pads instead of tampons. MedlinePlus says the use of tampons is believed to increase the chance of infection. Also, sanitary pads should be changed frequently. Women should wear loose-fitted pants and cotton underwear and drink plenty of fluids. Fluids that irritate the bladder, however, should be avoided. They include alcohol and caffeinated beverages.
