Urinary tract infections are common conditions, especially in women. They occur when microorganisms, mainly bacteria, invade the urinary tract, causing irritation and inflammation. These infections can affect any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, ureters, or urethra.

To fully understand the causes of a UTI, it is essential to know how the urinary system works, the main types of infections, and the risk factors.

What is a UTI?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an inflammation caused by the presence of bacteria in the urinary tract. These infections can be classified according to their location:

• Cystitis: Infection of the bladder.
• Pyelonephritis: Infection of the kidneys.
• Uretritis: Infection of the urethra.

Cystitis is the most common form of UTI, while pyelonephritis is more serious, as it can lead to kidney complications.

Statistics and prevalence of UTIs

UTIs are particularly common in women, with about one in two women suffering from one at least once in their lifetime. They are less common in men, although the risks increase with age. Children, especially girls, are also at higher risk.

Anatomy of the Urinary System: Why Are We Vulnerable?

The urinary system includes the kidneys, which filter waste products from the blood and produce urine; the ureters, which carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder; and the bladder itself, which stores urine before it is excreted through the urethra. If bacteria enter the urethra and travel up to the bladder or kidneys, an infection can develop.

One reason women are more prone to UTIs than men is the length of their urethra. The female urethra is shorter, allowing bacteria to travel a shorter distance to reach the bladder. In addition, the opening of the urethra in women is closer to the anus, which makes it easier for intestinal bacteria to infect them.

Main causes of a urinary tract infection

Bacteria that Cause Urinary Tract Infections

The main cause of urinary tract infections is the bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is naturally found in the intestine. It can also travel to the urethra and bladder, causing an infection. Other bacteria such as Klebsiella, Proteus, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus can also be responsible.

Personal Hygiene and Urinary Tract Infections

A lack of proper hygiene or inappropriate practices such as wiping from back to front after using the toilet can introduce bacteria into the urethra, leading to infection.

Sexual Intercourse and Risk of UTIs

Sexual intercourse is a common cause of UTIs, especially in women. During intercourse, bacteria around the genitals can be pushed into the urethra.

Hormonal changes and urinary tract infections

Hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy or menopause, can increase the risk of urinary tract infections. Hormones affect the acidity level and composition of the mucous membranes of the urinary system, making it more vulnerable.

Low water intake

Dehydration can make the urinary system more vulnerable to infections. When you don't drink enough water, bacteria can stay in the bladder longer, increasing the risk of infection.

Increased frequency of urination: When you drink enough water, you urinate more frequently. This helps to regularly flush out any bacteria that may be present in the urethra or bladder, reducing the likelihood that they will build up and cause an infection. Prolonged urine sitting in the bladder provides an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply.

Dilution of Urine: Concentrated urine, which occurs when you are dehydrated, is more irritating to the urinary tract and can also promote bacterial growth. Diluted urine, on the other hand, is less irritating to the bladder walls and less likely to cause infection. Water also reduces the concentration of minerals and salts in the urine, which can prevent the formation of kidney stones, another risk factor for UTIs.

Optimal Kidney Function: Water helps the kidneys effectively filter toxins and other waste products from the blood. When dehydrated, the kidneys' ability to filter and eliminate waste is reduced, which can contribute to the buildup of toxins in the body and weaken the body's natural defenses against infections.

 

Urine Color: An Indicator of Hydration

One of the easiest ways to know if you drink enough water is to observe the color of your urine. The color of your urine can indeed give a valuable indication of your hydration status:

1. Clear or pale yellow urine: If your urine is clear or pale yellow, it generally means that you are well hydrated. This level of hydration is optimal to ensure proper functioning of the urinary system and minimize the risk of infections.

2. Dark yellow urine: Darker urine is often a sign of dehydration. This means that the urine is more concentrated, which can irritate the bladder and make it easier for bacteria to build up. It is recommended that you increase your water intake in this case.

3. Amber or brown urine: Very dark urine can be a sign of severe dehydration, but it can also indicate underlying health problems such as infections or liver problems. If you notice this color of urine, it is important to see a doctor.

4. Cloudy or strong-smelling urine: If your urine is cloudy or has a strong odor, it could be a sign of a urinary tract infection, especially if it is accompanied by symptoms such as a burning sensation during urination or a frequent urge to urinate. Adequate hydration may help eliminate some bacteria, but medical advice is required.

Tips for staying well hydrated

• Drink water regularly: It is recommended to drink between 1.5 and 2 liters of water per day, or more in case of high heat or intense physical activity. This ensures sufficient urine production and helps maintain good kidney health. Don't like water? So add a touch of taste with eau exquise flavorings.
• Eat foods rich in water: Fruits and vegetables rich in water, such as cucumber, watermelon and oranges, can also contribute to your daily water intake.
• Avoid diuretic drinks: Coffee, tea, sodas and alcoholic beverages tend to increase urine production and can thus contribute to dehydration if consumed in excess. It is best to compensate for these drinks with water to maintain a good level of hydration.