We’ve already learned that the direct cause for urinary infection is the presence of bacteria that decides to “party” within any part of our urinary tract. The bacteria usually enters through the urethra and from there climbs the urinary tract. Therefore it is said that an untreated urinary infection of the urethra (urethritis) can develop into a bladder infection, which can even further kidney infection. 

     It is important to note that women are more prone to develop urinary infections simply because of their vaginal and rectal proximity. Women are also more prone to easily develop cystitis (bladder infections) because of their shorter urethra which cuts down the distance for bacteria to reach the bladder. 

     The urinary system is usually designed to fight and clear out such invaders, yet sometimes it fails to do so. This particular section will attempt to clarify two important questions regarding the development of a urinary infection in our urinary tract: 

1)       How did the bacteria get there in the first place? 

2)       What made it feel so “comfortable” in our tract, that it decided to settle and develop into a “little infectious community” down there? 

Here are a few basic ideas that should shed some light on the matter:

Poor hygiene

A lack of good hygiene helps bacteria both to enter and multiply within our urinary tract. Also wiping from back to front after a bowel movement helps bacteria reach the vaginal and urethral area.

Sex

Having frequent sex and multiple sex partners on a regular basis is a “good recipe” for contracting a urinary infection. The penis is an agent that can not only help bacteria reach the vagina (especially if vaginal sex is followed by a rectal penetration!), but also “massage” the bacteria into the vaginal walls.

Not emptying bladder when nature calls

Urine not only flushes out bacteria that reach the urinary system, but also contains antiseptic substances that fight those bacteria. By not emptying the bladder for many hours, we risk the chance for an unnecessary urinary infection.

Not drinking enough fluids

This principle is complementary to the previous one. Fluids help flush down bacteria that may reach our tract from time to time. Not drinking enough will produce less urine, and thus will help bacteria that reached our urinary system to harbor.

Birth controls

It is a known fact that birth control such as diaphragm and spermicidal agents increase the risk for urinary infections.

Lingerie and feminine products

Panties with a non cotton crotch (including pantyhose) increase the risk for urinary infections because they don’t absorb crotch moisture and thus help create a nurturing and “welcoming” environment for bacteria. The same goes for potentially irritating feminine products. Try to minimize the usage of such products or if you can- avoid them all together. 

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