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Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs can be frustrating, but understanding them doesn’t have to be. Discover common triggers, symptoms, and tips to manage Urinary Tract Infections. With helpful insights and advice, you can take steps to support your urinary health and well-being.

Overview of Urinary Tract Infections
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Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are infections that affect any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.

Most commonly, they involve the lower urinary tract — the bladder and the urethra. Women are at greater risk of developing a UTI than men due to their shorter urethra, which allows easier access for bacteria to reach the bladder. UTIs are characterised by a range of symptoms, depending on the site of the infection.

Causes and Risk Factors of UTIs

The primary cause of UTIs is the entry of bacteria into the urinary tract, with Escherichia coli (E. coli) being the most common culprit. These bacteria can enter through the urethra and start to multiply in the bladder.

Risk factors include sexual activity, which can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, and female anatomy, specifically a shorter urethra. Other risk factors are menopause, urinary tract abnormalities, blockages like kidney stones, a suppressed immune system, catheter use, and recent urinary procedures.

Common symptoms of UTIs

Symptoms of UTIs vary but often include :
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A strong, persistent urge to urinate, or a burning sensation when urinating
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Urine that appears cloudy, red, or bright pink-coloured
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Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
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A sign of blood in the urine
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Strong-smelling urine
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Pelvic pain in women

If the infection spreads to the kidneys, symptoms can escalate to include upper back and side pain, high fever, shaking and chills, nausea, and vomiting.

Do I have a urinary tract infection (UTI)?
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light bulb icon Welcome to the UTI symptom checker.

This short quiz has been designed to help you identify if you have a UTI, and help you choose the right treatment or course of action depending on the symptoms you’re experiencing.

UTIs are usually infections caused by bacteria called Escherichia coli (E. coli), and typically affect the urethra, bladder, vagina and kidneys. UTIs are very common, and nothing to be embarrassed about, but depending on the severity and the symptoms you are experiencing, it may be necessary to see your doctor for antibiotic treatment.

Get Started

This is a guide only. For medical advice or diagnosis, see your doctor. This questionnaire is not suitable for individuals younger than 12 years old.

Diagnosing UTIs
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Diagnosing UTIs

Diagnosing a UTI usually starts with identifying symptoms. Sometimes, a urine test is done to pinpoint the exact bacteria, helping guide the best treatment. For recurrent or complicated infections, additional tests like an ultrasound or a scan may be recommended to better understand what’s going on in your urinary tract.

Overview of UTI management and treatment options
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Management of UTIs primarily involves antibiotics to clear the infection, with the type and duration of antibiotic treatment depending on the severity of the infection and the patient’s medical history.

It’s crucial to complete the full course of prescribed antibiotics even if symptoms improve to prevent the spread of the infection and the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

For symptom relief, over-the-counter treatments like Ural Effervescent Powders may be used, and it is best to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the bacteria from the urinary system. In cases of frequent UTIs, preventive measures may include lifestyle changes, increasing fluid intake, and practising good toilet hygiene.

Tips in Women and Men

UTIs in Women
UTIs are more common in women and there are several reasons for this, including:
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Female anatomy

The urethra (the tube through which urine travels from the bladder to the outside of the body) in women is short and straight (only about 4 cm long), which makes it easier for bacteria to travel along it and up into the bladder

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Hormones

Some women find that their UTIs are linked to times of hormonal change such as before their periods or after menopause

These hormonal events can occur:

  • After a complete hysterectomy
  • At certain times within the menstrual cycle
  • During menopause
  • Whilst pregnant
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Certain types of contraception

Using a diaphragm or spermicide may also increase the likelihood of UTIs.

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Possible risk factors
There are certain risk factors that may mean some women are more likely to get repeat (recurrent) UTIs, including:
History of childhood UTIs
A family history of recurrent UTIs
Sexual activity and a new sexual partner
Using spermicides or a diaphragm as a means of contraception
Menopause
Suffering from constipation.
UTIs in Men
Around 1 in 20 men will experience a UTI during their lifetime.

While the causes may be different, the signs and symptoms of a UTI are similar to those experienced by women.

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Asian man urinating in toilet; portrait of Indian man using water closet, WC for peeing; concept of health care, prostate cancer, urethritis, UTI or urinary tract infection; Asian adult man model
Typical male UTI symptoms include:
Pain or a burning sensation when urinating (peeing)
Having to urinate more often than usual
Feeling an urgent need to urinate

Sometimes older men may not have any of these urinary symptoms but may just feel generally unwell or seem suddenly confused.

Your UTI support* crew

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For symptomatic UTI Relief*
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Ural Effervescent Powders

Relieves the burning symptoms of UTIs by reducing the acidity of urine.

  • Relieves the burning symptoms of UTIs
  • Works by reducing the acidity of urine
Available in 2 flavours
lemon flavour cranberry flavour
Available in packs:
8 sachets (Lemon Only) 20 sachets 28 sachets
Learn more Where to buy
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For urinary tract health Maintenance
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Ural High Strength Cranberry Capsules

Concentrated formula to help reduce the occurrence of medically diagnosed cystitis.

  • Helps reduce the occurrence of medically diagnosed cystitis
  • Concentrated one-a-day formula to support urinary tract health
Available in:
30 capsules 90 capsules
Learn more Where to buy
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For recurrent UTI Prevention
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Uramet Antibacterial Tablets

Non-antibiotic therapy to help suppress urinary tract bacteria for short or long-term use.

  • Non-antibiotic therapy
  • Suppresses urinary tract bacteria
  • May be used for short-term or long-term prevention of recurrent UTIs
Available in:
20 tablets 100 tablets
Learn more Where to buy

Ural effervescent powders and Uramet should not be used together.

Find your UTI support product

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Find your UTI support product

Urinary health hub

For more information and some resources….

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The Link Between UTIs & Pregnancy
UTIs are a common problem during pregnancy. Learn more about why pregnancy makes you more prone to UTIs and what symptoms to look out for.
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Do Cranberry Capsules reduce the occurrence of Medically Diagnosed Cystitis? | Ural
Ever had a UTI? If you have, then there’s a good chance you’ve tried to treat it yourself with cranberry – but why is cranberry good for urinary tract infections?
Read more
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Managing UTIs in Men
Did you know UTIs can be a problem for men too? Uncover the causes and symptoms of UTIs in men, and why it’s important to recognise, treat and try to prevent these types of infections.
Read more
View more articles

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

UTIs are typically caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract, with Escherichia coli (E. coli) being the most common culprit.

Can UTIs be serious?

While most UTIs are not serious if treated early, they can lead to more serious infections if left untreated.

How can I tell if I have a UTI?

Common symptoms include a strong urge to urinate, a burning sensation when urinating, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and pelvic pain.

Are UTIs treatable?

Yes, UTIs are typically treatable with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Can men get UTIs?

Yes, men can get UTIs, but they are less common than in women due to anatomical differences.

View all FAQs