Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Last Updated: July 3, 2026

Key Points

UTIs affect different parts of the urinary tract, including the bladder, urethra, and kidneys
Symptoms vary and can include pain when peeing, frequent urination, and cloudy pee
Antibiotics are a common treatment, but not always necessary
Specific symptoms may appear in children, older adults, or those with catheters

Overview

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are infections that can occur in any part of your urinary system, which includes your kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Common types include cystitis (bladder infection), urethritis (urethra infection), and kidney infection. These infections are usually caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract. The most common cause of UTIs is bacteria from the bowel (poo) entering the urethra, the tube that carries pee out of the body. Women are more prone to UTIs because their urethra is shorter, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. Factors like pregnancy, certain medical conditions, and poor hygiene can increase the risk. Treatment often involves antibiotics, though sometimes symptoms can resolve on their own. Self-care measures like drinking plenty of fluids and pain relief are also important. For recurrent or chronic UTIs, a doctor may suggest different or longer-term treatments.

Signs and Symptoms

Pain or burning sensation when peeing
Needing to pee more often than usual
Sudden or urgent need to pee
Pee that looks cloudy or has blood
Lower tummy pain or pain in the back, just under the ribs
High temperature, feeling hot, cold, or shivery
Feeling tired or weak
Changes in behavior like confusion (in older adults)
Bedwetting or vomiting (in children)

Things That Increase the Risk

Pregnancy
Wiping from back to front after using the toilet
Conditions that block the urinary tract, such as kidney stones
Difficulty fully emptying the bladder, like an enlarged prostate
Using urinary catheters
Weakened immune system, for example, from diabetes or chemotherapy
Having gone through menopause
Not drinking enough fluids

Diagnosis

Review of symptoms and medical history
Urine test to check for infection
Physical examination by a doctor

Treatment & Management

Taking painkillers like paracetamol for pain and fever
Drinking plenty of fluids to flush out bacteria
Short course of antibiotics prescribed by a doctor
Low-dose antibiotics for recurrent infections
Vaginal cream or tablets containing oestrogen for menopausal women
Referral to a specialist for chronic or complex cases

Prevention

Wipe from front to back after using the toilet
Keep the genital area clean and dry
Drink plenty of fluids, especially water
Pee as soon as possible after sex
Wear cotton underwear
Avoid scented soaps around the genital area
Do not hold your pee when you feel the urge
Fully empty your bladder when peeing

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs):