What causes a urinary tract infection?

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is an uncomfortable and sometimes painful health problem that is usually caused by bacteria invading the urinary system. Common causes of UTI include bacterial infection, poor hygiene habits, and certain health conditions.

The main cause of urinary tract infections is bacteria, especially E. coli. These bacteria normally live in the intestines, but if they enter the bladder through the urethra, they can cause an infection. Women are more susceptible to urinary tract infections because of their shorter urethra, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. In addition, poor hygiene habits can also increase the risk of infection. For example, women should wipe from front to back after using the toilet to avoid bringing intestinal bacteria into the urethra. Sexual activity may also increase the risk of infection because sexual activity may push bacteria into the urethra.

Certain health conditions can also increase your risk of UTIs. For example, people with diabetes are more susceptible to infections because of their weakened immune systems. People with structural abnormalities in their urinary tracts or narrowing of the urethra, which slows the flow of urine, can also increase their chances of infection. Older people and pregnant women are also at higher risk of UTIs because they have weakened immune systems or because of physiological changes that make them more susceptible to infections.

In daily life, maintaining good hygiene habits is the key to preventing urinary tract infections. Drinking plenty of water can help flush bacteria from the urethra, keep urine dilute, and reduce the possibility of infection. Going to the toilet regularly and avoiding holding urine can help keep the urinary tract open. Paying attention to personal hygiene, especially after going to the toilet and having sex, can effectively reduce the risk of infection.

Although common, urinary tract infections are not unpreventable. By understanding their causes and taking appropriate preventive measures, we can greatly reduce the risk of infection and improve our quality of life. If you experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection, such as frequent urination, urgency, and pain when urinating, it is key to seek medical attention promptly to prevent the infection from getting worse or causing other health problems. I hope this information will help you better understand the causes of urinary tract infections and how to prevent them.