Understanding UTIs: Risk Factors, Preventative Tips

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common bacterial infections that affect millions of people worldwide, causing discomfort and inconvenience.⁹

While UTIs can occur in anyone, certain factors increase the risk. Luckily, preventative measures may help reduce the likelihood and frequency of UTIs. Learn more below.

Risk factors for UTIs:

There are multiple UTI risk factors that one should bear in mind.

1. Gender

Women are more prone to UTIs² due to their anatomy, which makes it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract.

2. Age

As individuals age, changes in the urinary tract can make them more susceptible to infections, including UTIs.

3. Sexual activity

Intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, especially in women.

4. Certain medical conditions

Conditions like diabetes, bladder or kidney stones, or bowel dysfunction can increase the risk of contracting a UTI.⁶

5. Urinary catheter usage

Catheters, though necessary for medical reasons, can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, leading to UTIs. Catheters themselves are sterile, but improper handling and/or poor hygiene can lead to catheter contamination.

Urinary catheters and UTIs

Urinary catheters are essential medical devices that drain urine from the bladder in individuals who are not able to dispose of urine conventionally. However, catheter usage also increases the risk of UTIs.

Here's how it happens:

1. Bacterial entry

Catheters provide a direct pathway for bacteria to enter the bladder, increasing the risk of infection.

2. Long-term catheter usage

Prolonged catheterization can further increase the risk of UTIs.⁷

3. Indwelling catheters

Indwelling catheters, which remain in place continuously, pose a higher risk compared to intermittent catheters that are only inserted when the bladder needs to be emptied. However, UTIs are still the most common complication of intermittent catheterization.

Catheter-related UTI risk factors include:

• Bacteria inserted by product and lack of urethral rinsing

• Urethral and bladder trauma from product

• Post void residual urine due to product design⁶

UTI symptoms

Urinary tract infections can manifest through various symptoms, signaling an underlying bacterial infection in the urinary system. Symptoms can vary from person to person. However, the most common UTI symptoms include:

1. Burning sensation

A burning sensation or pain during urination is a typical symptom of UTI. It indicates that irritation is present in the urinary tract.

2. Frequent urination

Individuals suffering from UTI may experience frequent urge to urinate.

3. Urgency to urinate

Alongside frequent urination, individuals with UTIs may experience a sudden sense of urgency to urinate immediately, which can be disruptive to work and other daily activities.

4. Cloudy or bloody urine

Urine may appear cloudy or have a pink-ish color due to the presence of blood.

5. Strong odor

UTIs can cause urine to develop a strong unpleasant smell.

6. Abdominal discomfort

Some individuals may experience discomfort in the abdominal region, pelvis, or back. This discomfort may get worse during urination.

7. Fatigue

A UTI may be accompanied by fatigue.

8. Fever

A UTI can cause a mild to moderate fever. This usually indicates that the infection has spread beyond the urinary tract.

UTI treatment

UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics¹ specifically designed to treat bacterial infections. The choice of antibiotic and treatment duration may vary depending on the individual's medical history and the severity of infection.

Only a qualified healthcare professional can prescribe a treatment for UTI.

Some of the most common treatment and management options include:

1. Antibiotics

Antibiotics are prescribed to eliminate the bacteria causing the infection.

2. Analgesics

Pain relief medications may be recommendeded to manage pain or discomfort associated with UTI symptoms.

3. Urinary alkalinizers

In some cases, urinary alkalinizers may be prescribed to aid the eradication of bacteria⁵. These agents make the urine less acidic, which creates a less favorable environment for bacterial growth.

4. Lifestyle modifications

Increased fluid intake, strict hygiene protocols⁴ and avoiding irritants in both food and intimate care products can aid a UTI treatment protocol prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Tips for preventing UTIs

You may be able to reduce risk of UTI by following hygiene protocols and implementing some lifestyle changes. The following is usually recommended⁴:

1. Stay hydrated

Drinking fluids, in particular, water, helps flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.

2. Ensure appropriate hygiene

Always wipe from front to back after using the bathroom to prevent bacteria from entering the urethra.

3. Urinate after intercourse

Emptying the bladder after sexual activity helps flush out bacteria.

4. Avoid harsh hygiene products and irritants

Some body washes, moisturizers and deodorizing sprays may disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the urinary tract, increasing susceptibility to infections.

5. Manage blood sugar levels

Keeping blood sugar levels under control can reduce the risk of UTIs in individuals with diabetes.

6. Ensure appropriate catheter care

If you use a catheter, strictly follow hygiene protocols recommended by your healthcare provider.

7. Schedule regular checkups

Monitor for any signs of UTIs and seek medical attention if symptoms are detected.

Luja™ and Micro-hole Zone Technology

If you are a catheter user, UTIs might be significantly impacting your quality of life. The Luja catheter with micro-hole zone technology (in both male and female versions) is designed to reduce the risks of UTIs⁶.

Micro-hole zone technology reduces bladder microtrauma, one of the risk factors of UTIs in catheter users⁶.

Luja also enables complete bladder emptying*† in one position. 

* Luja has close to no flow stops and complete bladder emptying is defined as <10 mL Landauro et al., 2023, N=42. Individual results may vary.

† Luja female ensured zero flow stops in 87% of catheterizations & <10 mL residual urine at first flow stop in 83% of catheterizations (RCTs, post-hoc, NCT05841004, n=73, & NCT05814211, n=82). Coloplast Data-on-File, 01/2024.

FAQ

How do you get a UTI?

Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra³. Factors like sexual activity, incomplete bladder emptying, anatomical abnormalities, and catheter usage, among others, can increase susceptibility.

How do you know if you have a UTI?

Burning sensation during urination, frequent urination, strong urge to urinate, cloudy or bloody urine, pelvic or abdominal discomfort, back pain, fever and fatigue are common signs of a UTI. See a healthcare professional if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms.

How can you prevent a UTI?

To prevent a UTI, practice good hygiene, drink enough fluids, avoid irritants such as deodorizing sprays and make sure to work with your doctor to manage underlying medical conditions such as diabetes.

What causes a UTI?

UTIs are caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract, leading to infection and inflammation.

What is the main cause of a UTI?

The primary cause of UTIs is the entry of bacteria, most commonly E.coli, into the urinary tract.

What does a UTI feel like?

A UTI can manifest through painful urination, frequent urge to urinate, discomfort or pressure in the lower abdomen or in the pelvic region, and general feeling of fatigue and malaise, sometimes accompanied by mild fever.

How long does a UTI last?

The duration of a UTI can vary depending on the severity of infection, individual immune response, and promptness of diagnosis and treatment.

Does UTI go away on its own?

While some mild UTIs may resolve on their own, it’s essential to seek medical attention if you suspect you may have a UTI. Without proper treatment, a UTI may worsen and potentially lead to complications such as kidney infections.

How to treat a UTI?

Only a healthcare professional can recommend a treatment for a UTI. Some UTI treatment protocols include antibiotics.

How do you get a UTI without being sexually active?

Even if you don't engage in sexual activity or didn't have sex recently, UTIs can occur due to a number of other factors, such as anatomical abnormalities, catheter use, incomplete bladder emptying and more.

What causes a UTI in a woman?

Women are more susceptible to UTIs due to their urethra being shorter. Women can get UTIs due to sexual activity, poor hygiene, incomplete or not timely bladder emptying or catheter use.

How do men get UTIs?

What causes UTIs in men is similar to what causes UTIs in women. UTIs are caused by bacteria. Men develop UTIs due to incomplete bladder emptying, urinary catheter usage, or other conditions such as an enlarged prostate.

What doctor do you see for UTI?

You can initially consult your primary care physician or a family doctor. If necessary, for example if you have recurrent UTIs, they will refer you to a urologist. If your symptoms are severe, you may consider visiting an emergency room.

What can a UTI lead to?

If left untreated, a UTI can lead to complications, such as kidney infection. Always consult a doctor if you think you might have a UTI.

Can cranberry juice prevent a UTI?

While some sources suggest that cranberry juice might help prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract lining, evidence is not conclusive⁸. Drinking cranberry juice is not a substitute for proper hygiene or medical treatment. Always consult a medical professional before introducing new supplements or changing your dietary habits.

What is the difference between a UTI and cystitis?

A UTI is a broad term for an infection occurring anywhere in the urinary tract. Cystitis specifically refers to inflammation or infection of the bladder, which is the most common type of UTI.

References:

1. Chu C.M., Lowder J.L. (2018). Diagnosis and treatment of urinary tract infections across age groups. American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29305250

2. Czajkowski K., Broś-Konopielko M., Teliga-Czajkowska J. (2021). Urinary tract infection in women. Prz Menopauzalny. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8077804/

3. Flores-Mireles A.L., Walker J.N., Caparon M., Hultgren S.J. (2015). Urinary tract infections: epidemiology, mechanisms of infection and treatment options. Nature Reviews Microbiology. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4457377/

4. Gleicher S., Sebesta E.M., Kaufman M.R., Dmochowski R.R., Reynolds W.S. (2023). Recurrent urinary tract infection management and prevention techniques among a population-based cohort of women. Neurourology and Urodynamics, 2023. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37670465

5. Kavanagh O.N. (2022) Alkalising agents in urinary tract infections: theoretical contraindications, interactions and synergy. Therapeutic Advances in Drug Safety. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8935415/

6. Kennelly M., Thiruchelvam N., Averbeck M., Konstatinidis C., Chartier-Kastler E., Trøjgaard P., Vaabengaard R., Krassioukov A. and Petersen Jakobsen B. (2019). Adult neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction and intermittent catheterisation in a community setting: risk factors model for urinary tract infections. (2019). Advances in Urology. Study supported by Coloplast. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31065264/

7. Letica-Kriegel A. S., Salmasian H., Vawdrey D.K., Youngerman B, Green R.A., Furuya Y., Calfee D.P. and Perotte R. (2019). Identifying the risk factors for catheter-associated urinary tract infections: a large cross-sectional study of six hospitals. BMJ Open. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6398917/

8. Wawrysiuk S., Naber K., Rechberger T. and Miotla P. (2019) Prevention and treatment of uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections in the era of increasing antimicrobial resistance—non-antibiotic approaches: a systemic review. Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6759629/

9. Yang, X., Chen, H., Zheng, Y., Qu, S., Wang H., Yi, F. (2022). Disease burden and long-term trends of urinary tract infections: A worldwide report. Front Public Health. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35968451/

Luja Coudé is indicated for use by patients with urine retention and patients with post void residual volume (PVR) due to neurogenic and non-neurogenic voiding dysfunction. The catheter is inserted into the urethra to reach the bladder allowing urine to drain. The product is for adult male patients only. Available by prescription only. Patients performing self-catheterization should follow the advice of, and direct questions about use of the product to, their medical professional. Apply with caution if the patient produces urine with many particles clearly distinquishable by the naked eye, as it may lead to transient urine retention. Before using the device, carefully read the product labels and information accompanying the device including the instructions for use which contain additional safety information. For single-use only; discard it after use. If you experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection, or are unable to pass the catheter into the bladder, contact your healthcare professional. The risk information provided here is not comprehensive. To learn more, talk to your healthcare provider. For further information, call Coloplast Corp. at 1-866-226-6362 and/or consult the company website at www.coloplast.us.

Luja female is indicated for use by patients with urine retention and patients with a post void residual volume (PVR) due to neurogenic and non-neurogenic voiding dysfunction. The catheter is inserted into the urethra to reach the bladder allowing urine to drain. The product is indicated for female patients only (adults and children of and above the age of 2 years). Available by prescription only. Patients performing self-catheterization should follow the advice of, and direct questions about use of the product to, their medical professional. Apply with caution if the patient produces urine with many particles clearly distinguishable by the naked eye, as it may lead to transient urine retention. Before using the device, carefully read the product labels and information accompanying the device including the instructions for use which contain additional safety information. For single-use only; discard it after use. If you experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection, or are unable to pass the catheter into the bladder, contact your healthcare professional. The risk information provided here is not comprehensive. To learn more, talk to your healthcare provider. For further information, call Coloplast Corp. at 1-866-226-6362 and/or consult the company website www.coloplast.us.