Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are bacterial infections of the urethra, bladder, ureters or kidneys. According to Nemours Kid's Health, girls are stricken much more often than boys. Prescription treatments exist for urinary tract infections. If you suspect your child has a UTI, seek professional medical care. A urinary tract infection can begin for a number of reasons; knowing the cause can help you reduce the risk of future infections.
Improper Toileting Hygiene
One of the most common causes of urinary tract infections in girls is poor toileting hygiene. A young girl who wipes herself from back to front instead of front to back can infect her urethra with bacteria from her anus. Female toddlers should be taught the proper way to clean themselves after toileting.
Lack of Circumcision
American Family Physician relates that uncircumcised infant males of three months of age or less have a higher risk of UTI. Uncircumcised male toddlers should learn foreskin cleaning and care as part of their bathing ritual.
Waiting to Void
Children who delay voiding instead of urinating when the urge first comes have an increased risk of urinary tract infections. Children should be encouraged to void as soon as feasible once the urge is present.
Bubble Baths
Bubble baths and irritating cleansing agents predispose the urethra to infection. Children should use mild soap and avoid bubble bath.
Poor Clothing Choices
Wearing tight clothing, wet bathing suits, sweaty underwear and nylon underwear can cause UTIs. Children should wear cotton underwear to minimize this risk. Older children should learn to change underwear and shorts if they become damp during gym class or sports activities.
Genetics
Children whose sibling or parent had frequent urinary tract infections are at increased risk of contracting them. These children should be taught to be vigilant about monitoring for early symptoms, such as pain or burning upon urination.
Anatomical Abnormalities
Many children with UTIs are found to have abnormalities of the urinary tract. This may involve an obstruction that prevents all of the urine from moving along the tract as it should. Some children with frequent UTIs have a kidney that does not have a normal shape. Some children have an anatomical problem in which some of their urine flows backwards. Other children develop an abnormality due to a repeated pattern of waiting too long to urinate. Your child's pediatrician can guide you to treatment options for these conditions, to reduce the risk of UTIs.
Constipation
Children who are often constipated are at an increased risk of UTIs. For constipation control, consult with your child's pediatrician. Drinking more fluids, eating more fruits and vegetables or consuming fewer processed foods is sometimes prescribed.
