A UTI is an infection in the urinary tract. The urinary tract starts at your kidneys, which make urine. Urine then travels through tubes called ureters to the bladder, which holds the pee. The urine exits the bladder through the urethra.

Any part of the urinary tract can become infected. Typically, bacteria cause UTIs, but viruses and fungi can also cause infections. Both men and women can get UTIs. 

Types of UTIs

There are a few different types of UTI. These include: 

• Bladder infection: This is the most common type of UTI. It's also called cystitis.
• Kidney infection: This is less common but can be more serious. It's also called pyelonephritis. Infections of the kidneys or ureter are upper UTIs. 
• Urethritis: This is an irritation of the urethra. It’s often related to sexually transmitted infections, but UTIs can also cause this.
• Recurrent UTIs: This means you get repeat UTIs.
• Complicated UTIs: These don’t respond to typical antibiotic treatments. It often means there's an underlying health issue. Recurring UTIs can also lead to complicated UTIs.

UTI symptoms

UTI pain can be very uncomfortable. The most common symptoms of UTIs are:

• A painful or burning feeling when peeing
• Urinating more than usual
• Feeling like you have to pee, even when your bladder is empty
• Pain, pressure, or cramping in your lower belly

UTI can cause blood in your urine. If you have blood in your urine you need to alert your doctor immediately.

If the infection gets into your kidneys, you might have:

• Fever or chills
• Low back pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting

The bacteria that typically cause a UTI come from the skin. Not wiping properly and sexual activity are common causes of UTIs in women.

Anyone—men and women—can get a UTI. Kids are also more likely to get them because they’re still learning good bathroom habits and may not always empty their bladder fully.

In women

Women are more likely to get UTIs because of the shape and position of their urinary tract. Common causes and risk factors include:

• Shorter urethra: In women, the urethra is shorter and closer to the anus, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder
• Not wiping properly: Wiping from back to front can spread bacteria
• Sexual activity: Having sex can push bacteria closer to the urethra
• Pregnancy: Hormone changes and pressure on the bladder raise the risk
• Menopause: Vaginal changes after menopause can lead to more UTIs
• Previous UTIs: Some people are more likely to get another UTI after having one
• Catheter use: Using a urinary catheter can increase infection risk

In men

UTIs are less common in men but can still happen. Risk factors in men include:

• Prostate changes: An enlarged prostate can block urine flow and increase infection risk
• Sexual activity: Sex can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract
• Age: Older men are more likely to develop UTIs
• Previous UTIs: Like women, men who’ve had a UTI may be more likely to get another
• Catheter use: Long-term or short-term use of a catheter can raise the risk

Your primary care team or women’s health team will ask you for a urine sample to diagnose a UTI. We’ll also ask about the symptoms you’re having.

For most people, a course of antibiotics at home will cure the UTI. While you’re taking antibiotics, make sure to:

• Drink plenty of water
• Take the entire course of antibiotics
• Call your doctor if you have any side effects, like rash, nausea, diarrhea, or yeast infections

If your UTI is complex or keeps coming back, you may need to see a urologist for additional treatment or to diagnose an underlying issue.

Preventing UTIs

There are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of getting a UTI, including:

• Drinking plenty of water
• Practicing good hygiene (wiping front to back, never back to front)
• Avoiding using vaginal douches
• Minimize baths in favor of showers
• Urinating before and after having sex