Why do women suffer more from urinary tract infections?
Urinary infection is a serious problem. Although it is a disease that affects both men and children, women are more susceptible to it due to the female anatomy. In women, the urethra is shorter, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. According to the Brazilian Society of Urology, up to 80% of women may suffer at least one episode of cystitis in their lifetime and, of these, between 20 and 50% may have a repeat urinary infection, i.e. when the patient reports three occurrences in a year or two in six months.
And beware: failing to take care of it or treating it improperly can be harmful even to the kidneys. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) manifests itself in three different ways: when bacteria proliferate in the bladder it is called cystitis; if these micro-organisms invade the urethra it is known as urethritis; and when the infection is not treated correctly it can reach the kidneys.
It's worth noting that, in addition to the anatomical condition, other factors increase the risk of vaginal flora alterations. According to the Brazilian Society of Infectious Diseases, dysregulation can be associated with various factors, such as pregnancy, hormones, diabetes, immunodepression and genetics. Chronic illnesses and intense sexual activity also have the potential to increase the chances of developing UTI.
The earlier the diagnosis, the less chance there is of the infection causing other problems or even developing into septicemia - the dreaded generalized infection. A serious infection that affects the kidneys can lead to acute loss of kidney function or cause scarring of these organs, which also leads to loss of function in the future.
That's why it's important to pay attention to the first familiar symptoms: frequent urge to go to the toilet with little urine, pain, burning and urination accompanied by blood.
To prevent the migration of bacteria, we've put together some measures to include in your daily life:
. Drink plenty of water. This helps to flush out micro-organisms from the urethra and bladder.
. Urinate frequently. Holding urine in the bladder for long periods is an important contraindication
. Urinating after sex promotes the elimination of bacteria in the urinary tract.
. Take extra care with personal hygiene. Wash your hands before and after going to the toilet.
. Whenever possible, wash your genitals with soap and water. But don't overdo it: washing too much can damage the balance of genital flora, which is important for protecting the body.
. Avoid underwear that is too tight or that retains heat and moisture, as this facilitates the proliferation of bacteria.
. Change sanitary napkins frequently to avoid bacterial proliferation.
Changing habits can prevent major problems. Take care of yourself!
Sources:
https://fug.edu.br/repositorio/2019-1/Farmacia/FAR%201%202019.1-convertido.pdf
https://www.saopaulo.sp.gov.br/spnoticias/mulheres-sao-mais-suscetiveis-a-contrair-infeccao-urinaria/
http://www.acm.org.br/revista/pdf/artigos/162.pdf
https://www.scielo.br/j/ramb/a/sWyCf86BdcR5vQMnBPmSqzQ/?format=pdf&lang=pt
https://portaldaurologia.org.br/publico/doencas/cistite-de-repeticao/