It’s estimated that 50 to 60 percent of women will have at least one urinary tract infection (UTI) in their lifetime. One statistic says it all: UTIs, also known as cystitis, are one of the most frequent reasons women seek medical attention.
The symptoms—a burning sensation when peeing, an urgent need to pee, discomfort in the lower abdomen—can severely impact daily life. Here’s everything you need to know about UTIs: how to recognize them, how to treat them, and most importantly, how to prevent a recurrence.
A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria (most commonly Escherichia coli [E.coli], a bacterium naturally present in the intestine) enter the urinary tract and multiply. In most cases, the bladder becomes infected (cystitis). The infection can also spread to the urethra (urethritis) or, in more serious cases, to the kidneys (pyelonephritis).
Women are 20 to 40 percent more likely than men to develop cystitis. This isn’t a coincidence; the reason is directly linked to women’s anatomy. The female urethra is much shorter than the male urethra, which makes it easier for bacteria to travel from the anal region to the bladder.
It is important to know the difference between a lower UTI and an upper UTI:
UTI symptoms can come on quickly and intensify within a few hours. Here are the most common signs to look out for:
Did you know? The symptoms of cystitis can resemble those of other health problems. If in doubt, your pharmacist can help you assess your symptoms and come up with the best solution.
Certain UTI symptoms indicate that the infection may have worsened or even reached the kidneys:
Symptoms that worsen after 48 hours of antibiotic treatment
Understanding why UTIs develop is an important first step in preventing them. There are several contributing factors:
Urinary tract infections are considered recurrent (or chronic) when a woman has 4 or more infections per year or 2 or more infections in 6 months. If this is your situation, we recommend you speak to a health care professional. Further investigation may help identify the cause (and personalized preventive measures can be very beneficial).
Diagnosis begins with an assessment of your symptoms. Depending on the context, a urine analysis or culture may be performed to confirm the presence of an infection and identify the bacteria involved. The goal is to treat the infection at the right time and with the right medication when necessary. Talk to your pharmacist. They will be able to help directly (in some cases) or refer you to the right specialists, depending on your health status.
Treatment of a confirmed UTI usually involves taking a targeted antibiotic based on the type of bacteria identified and your overall health.
Treatment usually lasts between 3 and 10 days, depending on the drug that’s been prescribed and the severity of the infection. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Symptoms usually begin to improve within 24 to 48 hours of starting antibiotic treatment. If you don’t see any improvement after 48 to 72 hours, or if your symptoms worsen, consult your doctor or pharmacist again. Your treatment may need to be adjusted.
UTI prevention starts with good daily habits. Here are 9 simple habits that can make a real difference.
Aim for 6 to 8 glasses of water every day. Good hydration dilutes urine and helps flush out bacteria before they multiply in the urinary tract. Sipping water throughout the day is better than drinking large amounts less often.
Note: If you have a heart or kidney condition that limits your fluid intake, talk to your pharmacist before making any changes.
Studies suggest that cranberries (in juice, tablet, or capsule form) contain substances that prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract. It won’t help with an infection that’s already set in, but can help reduce the risk of recurrence. Ask your pharmacist about it.
Urinating regularly will help prevent urine stagnation in the bladder, which is a breeding ground for bacteria. Listen to your body and go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge. Don’t hold it in.
Incomplete urination leaves residual urine in the bladder, which encourages the growth of bacteria. Take the time to empty your bladder completely every time you pee.
Good intimate hygiene reduces the proliferation of local bacteria. But don’t overdo it. Overly aggressive or scented products can irritate the delicate mucosa and throw your microbiome out of balance, paradoxically increasing the risk of infection. Choose a mild soap or gentle cleanser formulated for this purpose.
This simple habit is one of the most effective ways to prevent UTIs. By wiping from front to back, you won’t bring bacteria from the anal area towards the urethra (which is a significantly shorter distance in women). All women should develop this important reflex.
Sexual activity facilitates the transfer of bacteria to the urethra through friction. Peeing within minutes of having sex helps flush out these bacteria before they reach the bladder. It’s one of the most effective preventive measures for women who are prone to UTIs.
The blood on sanitary pads is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, which can make their way into the urinary tract. Change your pads regularly and wear cotton underwear to help keep the area dry. Tight-fitting clothes can also trap moisture, which can lead to infection.
Constipation causes bacteria to stagnate in the rectum, which is close to the female urinary tract. A high-fibre diet, good hydration, and an active lifestyle help ensure regular bowel movements and reduce an often underestimated risk factor.
Most urinary tract infections do not require a visit to the emergency room. If in doubt about your symptoms, contact your pharmacist or call the Info-Santé 811 hotline. They will be able to direct you to the right resource quickly.
However, certain symptoms indicate a more serious issue requiring immediate medical evaluation:
These symptoms may indicate pyelonephritis (kidney infection), which requires prompt treatment. Book an appointment as soon as possible.
If left untreated, this infection can lead to kidney complications. If a urine test confirms the presence of an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. For women experiencing recurrent urinary tract infections, a more thorough assessment is recommended.
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