Urinary tract infections or UTIs are quite common in both men and women. However, women are more susceptible to UTIs due to their anatomy.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, more than 50% of women will have at least one UTI in their lifetime, and many will experience recurring infections. But, who’s vulnerable to UTIs and why? Let’s delve into this topic.

What are Urinary Tract Infections?

A urinary tract infection is an infection that affects any part of the urinary system, such as the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra.

The lower urinary tract, which consists of the bladder and the urethra, is more commonly affected by UTIs than the upper urinary tract, which encompasses the kidneys and the ureters. UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply, causing infection. The most common bacteria that cause UTIs are Escherichia coli or E. coli, which is normally found in the intestine and rectum and is responsible for about 80% of all UTIs.

Who’s at Risk of Developing a UTI?

Anyone can develop a UTI, but some people are more vulnerable than others. The risk factors for UTIs include:.

1. Gender

As already mentioned, women are more prone to UTIs than men. This is because women have a shorter urethra, which makes it easier for bacteria to travel up to the bladder and cause an infection.

2. Age

Age is also a factor that increases the risk of UTIs. Older adults, especially women, are more likely to develop UTIs. This is because as people age, their bladder muscles weaken, which makes it difficult to fully empty the bladder.

Additionally, older women may experience vaginal dryness, which tends to irritate the urethra and make it more susceptible to infection.

3. Kidney Stones or Anatomical Abnormalities

People who have kidney stones or other anatomical abnormalities in the urinary tract are at an increased risk of developing UTIs.

This is because such abnormalities make it harder to empty the bladder completely, and this can provide a breeding ground for bacteria to thrive.

4. Recent UTI

If you’ve had a UTI in the past, your chances of developing another one are higher. UTIs tend to recur, and you might experience recurrences more often if the infection wasn’t treated correctly the first time.

Additionally, not completing a full course of antibiotics can make the bacteria resistant to treatment and make the infection more challenging to treat the next time.

5. Pregnancy

Pregnancy is also a factor that puts women at a higher risk of developing UTIs. This is because pregnancy causes changes in the urinary tract that increase the likelihood of bacteria growing and causing an infection.

6. Weakened Immune Systems

People with weakened immune systems are more vulnerable to infections of all kinds, including UTIs. Conditions, such as diabetes or HIV, can suppress the immune system and make it harder for the body to fight off bacteria that cause UTIs.

7. Sexual Activity

Sexual activity can also increase the risk of UTIs. This is because during sexual intercourse, bacteria can enter the urethra and travel to the bladder.

Additionally, women who use diaphragms are at an increased risk of developing UTIs because the device can press against the urethra and make it harder to fully empty the bladder.

The Bottom Line

UTIs are common and often recurrent. Certain factors put people more at risk of developing UTIs, such as gender, age, kidney stones or anatomical abnormalities, recent UTI, pregnancy, weakened immune systems, and sexual activity.

By taking preventative measures such as staying hydrated, urinating fully after intercourse, and wiping from front to back after using the bathroom, you can reduce your risk of developing a UTI. If you experience any symptoms of a UTI, such as painful urination, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, fever, or abdominal pain, seek medical attention promptly to receive the necessary treatment.