How Does a Woman Get a Urinary Tract Infection?

The reason for this is a shorter urethra in females, making it easier for the bacteria to pass into the bladder. The leading causes and predisposing factors include:

Bacterial contamination

The leading cause of UTIs is a bacterium, Escherichia coli, which resides in the gut. It may find its way to the urethra through the following routes;

         ●     Poor hygiene techniques, for instance, when they wipe from the back towards the front after micturating

         ●    Sex

         ●    Contaminated hands or surfaces

Sexual Activity

Sexual intercourse predisposes a woman to UTI due to the introduction of pathogens into the urinary tract. It is reported that women who are frequently or aggressively sexually active are more at risk. These factors include;

         ●    Poor hygiene before and after sex

         ●    Using spermicidal drugs which alters the vagina flora

         ●    Floppy exchange of sexual partners

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuation, especially falling estrogen, contributes to variations in the urinary system defense mechanism. The most affected women are those with:

         ●    Pregnancy: Increased pressure on the bladder can lead to incomplete emptying, fostering bacterial growth.

         ●    Menopause: Reduced estrogen levels lead to changes in vaginal and urethral tissues, making infections more likely.

Urinary Tract Abnormalities

Certain structural and functional abnormalities can make UTIs more frequent, including:

         ●    Urinary retention: Inability to completely empty the bladder allows bacteria to multiply.

         ●    Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR): Backflow of urine from the bladder into the kidneys; this exposes the kidneys to an increased infection risk.

Use of Certain Birth Control Methods

Women with diaphragms and spermicidal agents have an increased susceptibility to UTI infections. They affect the natural vaginal flora that normally keeps dangerous bacteria at bay.

Poor Personal Hygiene

If not properly performed, hygiene habits promote bacterial overgrowth. This increases the likelihood of infection among patients with a history of any of the following:

         ●    Wearing tight, non-breathable undergarments which trap moisture

         ●    Failure to frequently change undergarments or female hygiene products

         ●    Using harsh soaps or douches which disrupt the pH balance of the body

Weak Immune System

A body with a compromised immunity system tends to fight off infections more vigorously. Conditions which weaken immunity include:

           ●    Diabetes (high sugar levels in the blood create a conducive environment for bacteria)

           ●    Autoimmune diseases

           ●    Chronic conditions that compromise immunity responses

 Holding in Urine for Too Long

Urination can be delayed in the bladder by allowing bacteria to multiply. There is a need to empty the bladder regularly and flush out dangerous microorganisms.

Use of Catheters

Prolonged exposure to the same bacteria poses a risk to women who must use urinary catheters for a medical condition.

Dehydration

Less water intake causes a decrease in urine production that may not aid the body to flush out the bacteria. One needs to hydrate to avoid UTI.