Understanding UTIs
Prompt relief, smart prevention, and personalized plans for recurrent infections.
Burning with urination, frequent urges, and pelvic pressure can disrupt your day and your sleep. UTIs are common, but recurring infections or lingering symptoms deserve a careful, compassionate approach. At Westside Women's Health, we focus on fast relief now and fewer infections later.
Fast Facts About UTIs
Most UTIs are uncomplicated and respond quickly to treatment
Recurrent UTIs are commonly defined as 2 in 6 months or 3 in 12 months
Symptoms can overlap with vaginal infections or bladder pain syndromes
Hydration and timely care help reduce complications
Common Symptoms
- Burning or pain with urination (dysuria)
- Urgency and frequent urination in small amounts
- Pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
Why It Matters
Untreated infections can worsen and, in some cases, spread to the kidneys. Recurrent UTIs may signal contributing factors such as sexual activity patterns, hormonal changes, pelvic floor dysfunction, or bladder habits. Clear diagnosis and a tailored plan can reduce symptom days and antibiotic exposure.
Diagnosis & Evaluation
Evaluation typically includes a focused history and testing such as urinalysis and, when indicated, urine culture to confirm infection and guide antibiotics. Depending on your symptoms and history, we may consider screening for vaginal infections, sexually transmitted infections, or assessing for bladder pain syndrome. Imaging or urology referral is reserved for specific situations, such as frequent recurrences or atypical findings.
UTIs vs. Vaginal Infections
UTIs
- Burning with urination and urinary urgency/frequency
- Pelvic pressure; urine may be cloudy or bloody
- Typically minimal external itching
- Urinalysis/culture often positive
Vaginal Infections (Yeast/BV)
- Vaginal itching, irritation, or odor
- Discharge changes (thick/white with yeast; thin/odorous with BV)
- Urinary burning often external
- Urinalysis may be normal; vaginal testing clarifies
Treatment Options
For uncomplicated UTIs, short courses of targeted antibiotics are commonly used and provide quick relief. Pain relief strategies may include urinary analgesics and hydration. For recurrent UTIs, prevention plans may include behavioral measures (hydration, timed voiding), post-coital strategies, prophylactic or patient-initiated antibiotics when appropriate, and vaginal estrogen for postmenopausal patients after clinical evaluation. We individualize care to minimize symptoms and reduce recurrence risk.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
- ✓Symptom timeline (onset, triggers, fever, back pain)
- ✓Recent antibiotics used and any reactions
- ✓List of current medications/supplements
- ✓History of prior cultures or imaging results
Frequently Asked Questions
1What causes UTIs?
UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply, often from the urethra to the bladder. Contributing factors can include sexual activity, spermicide use, certain hygiene habits, hormonal changes, and incomplete bladder emptying.
2How can I help prevent future infections?
Hydrate regularly, avoid delaying urination, consider urinating after sexual activity, and discuss whether changes in contraception or vaginal estrogen (if postmenopausal) may help. For recurrent cases, your clinician can tailor additional strategies.
3Do I always need antibiotics?
Bacterial UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics. The choice and duration depend on symptoms, history, and culture results. We also address prevention to reduce the need for future antibiotics.
4When should I be evaluated for recurrent UTIs?
If you have 2 infections within 6 months or 3 within a year, or if symptoms persist, it's reasonable to consider further evaluation to look for contributing factors and to create a personalized prevention plan.
5Do cranberry or probiotics help?
Some people report fewer infections with certain cranberry preparations or probiotics. Results vary by individual and product. We can discuss evidence-informed options that fit your care plan.
Get Relief and a Prevention Plan
Whether this is your first UTI or part of a recurring pattern, we'll help you feel better now and reduce infections going forward with a plan that fits your life.
Book an Appointment