Recurrent UTIs in perimenopause: Causes and methods of prevention

Recurrent UTIs in perimenopause: Causes and methods of prevention

UTI is the most common infection in women of all ages. Recurrent UTIs in perimenopause: Causes and methods of prevention It is caused when pathogenic microorganisms enter the body through the urethra (the most common are colibacillus, staphylococcus and proteus). Microorganisms find the right conditions to multiply and cause inflammation. Women are more often infected than men because the female urethra is smaller than the male and is located very close to the vagina and anus, with the result that the transfer of microbes normally found in these areas is favored inside. The infection can manifest as either a bladder infection (cystitis) or a kidney infection (pyelonephritis, which is a serious condition that requires hospitalization). Recurrent urinary tract infections One in two women will get a UTI at least once in their life, while 30% of them will get sick 4-5 times a year. In cases where a woman develops a UTI 3 or more times a year, the infection is defined as recurrent or recurrent. 10% of all UTIs are due to recurrence. A UTI affects appetite and mood, disrupts sex and relationships with loved ones, and makes her feel bad about her body. Risk factors There are many factors that favor a urinary tract infection: Frequent sexual intercourse (more than 3 times a week, with the risk tripling before menopause), because they increase the risk of urethral infection from the transfer of microbes from adjacent anatomical areas Use of spermicides, because they disrupt the normal flora of the vagina in favor of uropathogenic microbes Having multiple sexual partners History of UTI before age 15 Changes due to menopause, decrease in hormones and weakening of the pelvic floor Pregnancy Bladder or kidney operations Anatomical abnormalities of the genitourinary system Depressed immune system Symptoms Frequent urination Dysuria (difficulty passing urine often accompanied by pain) Burning during urination Pain in the lower abdomen Incontinence Urgent need to urinate Frequent urination at night Hematuria (blood in the urine that gives it a pink tint) Cloudy and smelly urine Fever (which most often means the infection has progressed to the kidneys and needs immediate treatment) How you can protect yourself Taking an antibiotic after intercourse Urination before and after intercourse Use of lubricant during intercourse (and more so during perimenopause) Avoid using a diaphragm Urinating before going to bed Avoid urinating in the sea Wash the sensitive area with cold water Good hydration of the body Avoiding staying with the bladder full for a long time Source: www.omned.gr