A urinary tract infection is an infection in any part of the urinary system. The urinary system contains your kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra (the tube that lets the urine leave your bladder). Most infections involve the lower urinary tract which is where your bladder and urethra are located.

Women are more than likely to develop a urinary tract infection than men. If the infection is located within the bladder, it can be quite painful and uncomfortable. The urinary tract infection located in the bladder can be caused through engaging in sexual activities, low immune systems, enlarged prostate gland in men or having diabetes. This type of UTI is caused by bacteria from the anus entering the bladder, this usually happens as the anus is close to the bladder.

Infections within the bladder are called lower UTI’s. This type of UTI can cause symptoms such as:

• A need to pee more often
• Pain or discomfort when peeing
• Sudden urges to pee
• Feeling as though your bladder is always full
• Pain in your lower tummy
• Urine having a foul smell

The other type of UTI’s are infections within your kidneys. These UTI’s are known as upper UTI’s. These can cause the same symptoms as lower UTI’s as well as:

• Pain in your sides or back
• Shivering/chills
• High temperature
• Feeling and being sick

If you believe you currently have a urinary tract infection in either your bladder or kidneys its important you notify your GP. Urinary tract infections are occasionally treated with a short course of antibiotics. Most women are given a course of antibiotics that last a few days. However, pregnant women or men will need a slightly longer course.

UTI’s can be quite painful and uncomfortable however, you are able to receive paracetamol or ibuprofen to help with the pain.

If you are currently experiencing symptoms associated with a urinary tract infection, talk to a healthcare provider. You will be able to discuss your symptoms further as well as have a physical examination to confirm a UTI diagnosis.