Compared to men, women are more susceptible to recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs). They can, at best, be uncomfortable. However, if left untreated, they may lead to complications that are harder to treat.
Hence, in women’s reproductive health, it is critical to spot and treat UTIs promptly. This guide will teach you how to recognize its early signs and when you need to call your OBGYN about it.
Recognizing Early Signs of a UTI
UTIs often start with mild symptoms, which can quickly escalate if not addressed. If you’ve never experienced or rarely experience UTIs, here are warning signs you must pay attention to:
- Frequent urge to urinate. You may feel the need to urinate often, even if your bladder isn’t full, often interfering with your daily activities.
- Burning sensation during urination. A sharp, stinging pain or discomfort while peeing is a key sign of irritation or infection in the urinary tract.
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine. Urine may appear murky, darker than usual, or have an unusually strong odor, which can indicate the presence of bacteria and infection.
- Pelvic discomfort. A dull ache, cramping, or pressure around the lower abdomen or pelvic region may develop as the infection progresses, making it uncomfortable to sit or move.
When to See an OBGYN for a UTI
While most UTI flare-ups resolve on their own, you may still be at risk of the issue persisting and worsening. Below are some red flags that might call for a check-up with your OBGYN.
- Symptoms persist beyond a day or two. If left unchecked, the infection can spread to the kidneys, leading to a more serious condition known as pyelonephritis, which requires urgent medical care.
- You experience severe pain in the lower back or abdomen. This could indicate that the infection has reached your kidneys, increasing the risk of long-term complications and systemic infection.
- There is visible blood in your urine. Blood in urine may signal an advanced infection or, in rare cases, another underlying condition that needs immediate evaluation.
- You have a high fever or chills. Fever and chills suggest the infection has become systemic, potentially leading to sepsis if not treated promptly.
- You suffer from recurrent UTIs (more than three per year). Frequent infections may indicate an underlying issue, such as anatomical abnormalities or hormonal imbalances that need to be addressed.
Following a consultation, your OBGYN will perform a urine test to confirm the infection and recommend appropriate treatment options. Depending on the severity and type of bacteria causing the infection, treatment may involve a short course of antibiotics to eliminate the infection.
In cases of recurrent infections, your doctor might suggest preventive measures such as lifestyle changes, probiotic use, or low-dose antibiotic therapy. Additionally, staying hydrated and avoiding irritants like caffeine and alcohol can support recovery and minimize recurrence.
Conclusion
UTIs are some of the most common conditions women experience in their lifetime. However, despite how common it is, it must never be underestimated because complications can quickly develop and cause more serious problems.
With this guide, you can recognize its symptoms much quicker and take the necessary steps to manage them. If they don’t resolve on their own or with the help of home remedies, make sure to reach out to your OBGYNs promptly so that they can be addressed appropriately.
At Roswell Ob/Gyn, our OBGYN practitioners are well-equipped to develop effective treatment plans and recommend lifestyle modifications to prevent future recurrences. Make sure to give our team a call today to set up an appointment.
