Why Do I Get UTIs So Frequently?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common, resulting in approximately 8.1 million doctor visits annually. They can affect any part of the urinary tract system, leading to unpleasant symptoms in the short term. 

Several issues can also cause UTIs to come back. If you live in Brooklyn or the greater New York City area and struggle with recurrent UTIs, Dr. Himansh Khanna and his dedicated staff can help. Here’s what you need to know about your urinary tract, how UTIs develop, and what to do if you get UTIs frequently.

Understanding your urinary tract

Your urinary system functions as part of your body’s waste disposal process, involving your kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. This system filters waste from your blood and eliminates it through urine. 

How UTIs develop

UTIs stem from bacteria entering the urinary system. Due to anatomical differences, they are more common in women (approximately 60% on average) than in men (approximately 12% on average), as women typically have shorter urethras. 

Harmless bacteria live in large quantities in the pelvic region, but harmful types can enter the urinary tract through the rectum or other means, such as birth control methods like diaphragms or spermicidal foam, a compromised immune system, or anatomical abnormalities.

Why UTIs may keep coming back

The inflammation and infection caused by the bacteria in your urinary system can resolve on their own or with antibiotics when necessary. UTIs become recurrent when they occur more than twice in a six-month period or more than three times in a year. 

Many factors can lead to the bacteria coming back or remaining in your body, such as kidney or bladder stones, diabetes, catheter use, sexual activity, menopause, an infected or enlarged prostate, or living in a nursing home or hospital. Other underlying conditions, such as interstitial cystitis, can also cause UTIs to recur.

How to find relief from UTIs

Antibiotics provide relief for both acute and chronic UTI issues. Still, other methods can help keep them from coming back, such as surgery to repair damage to your urinary tract or remove kidney or bladder stones. 

Lifestyle changes can also reduce incidents of UTIs, such as drinking plenty of fluids (including a lot of water), peeing right after sex, wiping from front to back after going to the bathroom, changing your birth control, and wearing cotton underwear.

Recurrent UTIs can be very uncomfortable, but we can help you take control and get relief. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Khanna today to learn how we can assist you.