Download Reproductive Health Program Urinary Tract Infection Fact Sheet

Reproductive Health Program
Urinary Tract Infection Fact Sheet
Normally, bacteria do not live in the urine, bladder, kidneys or the tubes that connect them. In certain situations,
however, bacteria are introduced into these areas and start to multiply. It is then that you may start having
symptoms like:
Frequent urination or pain with burning
Urgency to urinate
Foul-smelling or dark urine
Waking up to urinate during the night
Low abdominal pain or back pain
Following are some suggestions for preventing a urinary tract infection:
 Drink 6-8 glasses of water every day in addition to other liquids you normally drink.
 Always wipe the vaginal area from front to back so that bacteria from your anal area are not pushed
into the vagina or urinary opening.
 Wash the genital area with warm water before sex to minimize the chance that bacteria from the
vagina, anus, and perineum can be introduced into the urethra during sex. Urinate soon after sex.
 Urinate when you feel the urge. Don’t wait until you feel like you are going to explode. This
overextends the bladder.
 Use a water-soluble lubricant during sex if the vaginal area feels dry. Bruised tissues may become
irritated or even infected. Do not use oil-based lubricants such as baby oil or Vaseline.
 If you us a diaphragm and spermicide, make sure the size is correct. Insert with clean hands, use
recommended amount of spermicide and consider another method if you suspect it may be contributing
to your urinary tract infections.
 Avoid using feminine hygiene products such as sprays, deodorants and douches.
 Change sanitary pads and tampons frequently and do not use deodorized pads or tampons.
 Don’t use perfumed/colored toilet paper, heavily scented soap, or powders in the vaginal area.
Some laundry detergents, bleaches and fabric softeners can cause allergic reactions.
A MORE SERIOUS URINARY TRACT INFECTION IS ONE THAT AFFECTS YOUR KIDNEYS. IF
YOU DEVELOP ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SYMPTOMS, SEEK MEDICAL CARE
IMMEDIATELY!
 Chills and Fever
 Headache
 Fatigue
 Mid-back/flank pain
 Vomiting
N-08; 5/13
Federal Title X funds were used to purchase this document.