Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can affect both men and women, but women are more prone to developing them due to anatomical differences. The indications of a UTI in females may include:
Frequent and urgent urination: You may feel the need to urinate more often than usual, and the urge to urinate may be strong and sudden.
Pain or burning sensation during urination: You may experience a stinging or burning sensation when urinating.
Lower abdominal discomfort: Some women with UTIs may have pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic region.
Cloudy or bloody urine: Your urine may appear cloudy, have a strong odor, or contain blood. However, UTIs can also occur without visible changes in urine color.
Feeling incomplete emptying of the bladder: You may have a persistent feeling of not fully emptying your bladder after urination.
Pelvic pressure or discomfort: Some women may experience pelvic pressure or discomfort even when not urinating.
Fever or chills: In more severe cases, a UTI may lead to fever, chills, or general malaise. These symptoms suggest that the infection may have spread to the kidneys and require immediate medical attention.
It’s important to note that UTI symptoms can vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience all of these symptoms, while others may only have a few. Additionally, some women with UTIs may also experience pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse.
If you suspect you have a UTI, it’s important to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can confirm the diagnosis through a urine test and prescribe appropriate antibiotics to treat the infection. Drinking plenty of water and urinating frequently can help flush out bacteria and alleviate symptoms while waiting for medical evaluation.
To prevent UTIs, it’s recommended to maintain good hygiene, wipe from front to back after using the toilet, urinate before and after sexual activity, drink plenty of water, and avoid holding urine for prolonged periods.
