Bacteria Gets Into Your System
Your digestive tract contains bacteria that can accumulate around the opening of your urethra. The urethra is a tube or passageway for urine to leave your bladder and be expelled from the body. The bacteria can start to multiply and an infection may develop. If an infection is left untreated, it can become worse and eventually infect the bladder, ureters and the kidneys. The Mayo Clinic states that Escherichia coli--usually called E. coli and a type of bacteria that naturally occurs in the colon--is the main type of bacteria that causes infection. Microorganisms called chlamydia and mycoplasma can also cause infections as well.
Abnormalities, Diseases
Structural abnormalities and diseases that affect the structure of the urinary tract can block the flow of urine. This includes having kidney stones or an enlarged prostate. As the urine flow is interrupted, an infection may occur. Diabetes and other diseases that suppress the immune system can also leave you vulnerable to a urinary infection. If your immune system is compromised, it will have a harder time fighting off an infection and will set the stage for it to get worse.
Use of Catheter, Diaphragm
According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, having a catheter or other tube placed in the urethra and bladder or using a diaphragm can also increase your chances of an infection. Bacteria can build on the catheter or tube, which may then infect your bladder.
Beware of Certain Situations
Be aware of certain situations that make you more prone to urinary infections. The National Institutes of Health state conditions such as bowel incontinence, staying still for long periods of time, for example, while you are recovering from a hip fracture, menopause, not drinking enough fluids and sexual intercourse, especially if you have multiple partners, can increase your risk. Woman face a higher risk because they are prone to abnormalities that allow bacteria to attach to cells lining the urinary tract. This can lead to multiple reoccurring infections.
