One common thread among health conditions is that the earlier they are detected, the more effectively they can be treated. And one of the most helpful tools in the early detection of any reproductive health concern for women is education. In our experience, the more women understand about their bodies and the signs of issues like urinary tract infections (UTI), the more likely they will be to seek medical assistance sooner. This is why we wanted to provide this helpful guide for how women can tell if they have a urinary tract infection.
To begin, we thought it would be instrumental to discuss common risk factors of UTIs among women. While it’s a fact that UTIs are common among women in general, it’s also true that certain things can increase a woman’s chances of developing an infection. This includes hormone changes that occur during menopause, being overweight, kidney stones or other health conditions that affect the urinary tract, diabetes, and a suppressed immune system. We know that some of these factors are beyond a woman’s control, but we felt it was important for women with these risk factors to be aware of this information.
Common symptoms of urinary tract infections that women should be aware of include:
- Pain or discomfort in the pelvic area, abdomen, or side
- Frequent urination (including at night)
- Pain or bleeding during urination
- Pain during sex
- Fever
- Shaking or chills
- Nausea or vomiting
For women who fear they may have developed a UTI, there are effective treatment methods available. In many cases, a course of oral antibiotics can successfully relieve a urinary tract infection in as little as a week. Drinking plenty of water can help effectively flush the system and assist the antibiotic treatment.
Knowledge is an incredibly powerful tool for women trying to achieve and maintain their reproductive health and wellness over time. For more information on UTIs or if you would like to request an appointment with one of our reproductive healthcare providers, contact Gynecology Associates of Gwinnett today. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook for more tips, updates, and much more.
