URINARY TRACT INFECTION (CYSTITIS)
STUDENT INFORMATION SHEET

What is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?
A urinary tract infection is a bacterial infection of the bladder, and occasionally higher parts of the urinary tract. It is caused by a variety of bacteria, but most commonly, the organism responsible is Escherichia coli. E. coli is present in the large intestine of all healthy men and women. Some women are more susceptible to a UTI than others and the reason is not always apparent.

There are certain factors that increase the chance of infection. The female urethra (urinary opening) lies just under the clitoris and is continually rubbed during sexual intercourse. If intercourse is particularly vigorous or prolonged, or if the vagina is not well lubricated, the urethra may be slightly injured. If intestinal bacteria such as E. coli are present in the vagina, they can infect the injured urethra and work their way up into the bladder. Certain chemicals, such as those found in bubble baths, feminine hygiene sprays and commercial douches can also injure the urethra.

What are the symptoms of a UTI?
A UTI causes the bladder and urethra to be sensitive and irritable, resulting in pain with urination, frequency of urination, and the feeling of an urgent need to urinate (even though only a small amount of urine may be passed). There is sometimes blood in the urine.

How is a UTI diagnosed?
The diagnosis of a UTI is based on symptoms and laboratory testing of a urine specimen.

How is a UTI treated?
Antibiotics are prescribed. * The number of days the antibiotics are prescribed depends of the length and severity of symptoms. It is recommended to take the medication exactly as prescribed and for the full number of days prescribed even after you start to feel better. In some cases a medication can be prescribed to anesthetize the bladder to make urinating more comfortable until the antibiotic begins to work.

*For women taking birth control pills: if an antibiotic is prescribed for you, we advise you to consider using a back-up method of contraception (condom and spermicide) during antibiotic treatment. Do not stop taking your birth control pills.

While on medication, drink plenty of fluids, water or cranberry juice, at least 8 glasses a day. This will dilute the urine and flush out the infection. Avoid tea, coffee and carbonated beverages because these beverages will irritate the bladder. It if also recommended to abstain from intercourse until symptoms have completely subsided.

Return to Health Services if your symptoms have not improved after several days on medication or if you develop new symptoms such as fever, low back pain, persistent blood in the urine, nausea, or vomiting. Also contact us if your symptoms come back after you finish taking all the medication.

How can I prevent urinary tract infections?

• Always urinate when you have the urge – do not hold it!
  
• Try not to wait more than 3 or 4 hours between urination
  
• Be sure to always wipe from front to back after urinating and/or each bowel movement
  
• Drink 8 glasses of water a day
  
• Urinate before and immediately after intercourse
  
• If you have anal intercourse, DO NOT follow it with vaginal intercourse
  
• If necessary, use a water-soluble lubricant such as KY Jelly during intercourse
  
• Wear clean cotton underwear
  
• Avoid bubble baths, feminine hygiene sprays and commercial douches
  
• Build up resistance to infection – plenty of rest and a healthy diet are important

Rev 4/04 eml. (SCHS
9/02)