In my experience as a urologist, many people think of urinary tract infections (UTIs) as a women’s health concern. But anyone can get a UTI. The condition can lead to serious problems or signal other health challenges. So it’s important that we all understand the infection.
Differences in biology mean that men and women have distinct risks. They also have unique ways to prevent UTIs. Here’s the information I want my patients to have.
What causes UTIs, and what UTI symptoms to look for
Bacteria on the skin can enter the urethra. They can then multiply and spread, causing infection. Bladder infections are the most common type of UTI, and they usually aren’t serious. However, if the UTI spreads to the kidney, it can cause pyelonephritis (a kidney infection) – and that can become serious.
Diabetes and immune deficiencies can increase the risk of UTIs across genders. But we can all reduce the risk by drinking plenty of water and fully emptying the bladder when the urge to go hits.
Both men and women can experience these signs of UTIs:
- Burning or pain during urination
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Blood in urine
- Cloudy urine
- Urine with a strong odor
These symptoms may indicate a kidney infection:
- Fever and chills
- Low back pain
- Vomiting and nausea
From these basics, UTI risk factors differ between men and women.
UTIs in men
Men tend to have longer urethras than women, so that helps keep bacteria out of the bladder. But when men do get a UTI, it tends to be more complicated than it is for women. Typically, UTIs in men are caused by another medical problem. Up to 20% of men will get a UTI in their lifetime.
What increases men’s UTI risk:
- Bladder and kidney stones, which can block urine flow
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which makes the prostate gland grow large, potentially making it difficult to empty the bladder
- Urethral strictures (scarring inside the urethra, typically caused by sexually transmitted infections [STIs] or an injury to the genital area)
- Anal sex without condoms
- Not being circumcised
In addition to the tips above, men can prevent UTIs by getting regular prostate exams starting at age 50 to check for BPH.
UTIs in women
Some studies estimate that women get UTIs up to 30 times more often than men. Here’s what you should know:
What increases women’s UTI risk:
- Short urethras make it easy for bacteria to travel to the bladder
- Close proximity of the urethra to the rectum
- The female urethra is sensitive, and irritated skin welcomes bacteria to grow
- Sexual contact
- Use of spermicide and/or a diaphragm for contraception
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Dropping estrogen levels during menopause
- Pregnancy, which puts more pressure on the urinary tract
Besides the general UTI prevention tips above, women can further avoid UTIs by:
- Wiping from front to back or blotting instead of wiping
- Avoiding douches and other products marketed as feminine hygiene
- Going to the bathroom after sexual activity to flush bacteria from the urethra
- Washing daily
UTIs in trans and nonbinary people
The risk of UTIs can differ for transgender and gender-diverse people. Barriers to safe public restroom use can mean that many people retain urine for long periods. Waiting too long to go to the bathroom can increase the risk of UTIs. Plus, transgender women who’ve had vaginoplasty and transgender men who haven’t had phalloplasty have short urethras. This can also increase the risk of UTIs.
Talk to your care team about your risk and how you can maintain your urinary health.
When to seek UTI treatment
If you have any UTI symptoms, don’t wait to seek care. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help you feel better and avoid serious complications.
When you see a urologist for a UTI, you’ll give a urine sample and discuss your symptoms. Imaging tests aren’t usually needed unless the infection is severe. UTI treatment is typically antibiotics, fluids, and pain relief. This can help you feel better within a few days.
No matter what your urinary health concern is, you can count on expert care at the Fox Chase-Temple Urologic Institute. Our urologists treat conditions of the bladder, kidneys, and ureters for people of all ages.
Kind, knowledgeable care is available near you. Call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) or schedule an appointment online.
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