One of the most common problems to affect women is urinary tract infection, which occurs when bacteria infect the urinary system. It is more common to see instances of frequent urinary tract infections in women than in men. Our urinary systems consist of the bladder, kidneys, urethra and ureter. Infection-causing bacteria can enter the urethra and then move to the bladder, where they multiply. In case the infection is not checked in time, the bacteria could move to the kidneys and infect it too.

Urinary Tract Infections

CAUSES
The e-coli bacteria are believed to be the main cause of urinary tract infections. However, at times, the infection could also occur because of other microorganisms, like Chlamydia or Mycoplasma.

The use of diaphragms is also known to cause urinary tract infections in women. This is because during insertion the device can cause bruising of the vaginal walls leading to infection from bacteria. This could lead to urinary infection. Moreover, certain other birth control methods could also cause you to suffer from a urinary tract infection.

Women are also more vulnerable to UTIs, probably because of their anatomy. Women have a shorter urethra, which means that the bacteria need to travel a shorter distance to reach the bladder.

TREATMENT
If you are suffering from a UTI, it is best for you to consult a doctor, who can prescribe antibiotics. Your symptoms should disappear within two to three days of taking the medicines, though you will need to complete the course. Some of the antibiotics that can cure the infection include:
Nitrofurantoin
Levofloxacin
Ampicillin
Amoxicillin

Doctors usually prescribe a longer antibiotic course to treat frequent urinary tract infections in women. Therefore, if you suffer from these infections quite often, do inform your doctor about it. The medicines your doctor prescribes may vary, depending upon the severity of the infection as well as your age, lifestyle and sexual activities.