Do you think you have a urinary tract infection (UTI)?
UTIs are very common bladder infections, but they are especially frequent in women.
UTIs are treatable, but a visit to your provider is required in order to determine a proper diagnosis and course of treatment. If you think you may have a UTI, please review the list of symptoms below and request an appointment with PGOMG.
UTI symptoms you need to know
- Pain and/or discomfort in the lower abdomen, pelvic region, groin, or bladder
- Pain and/or discomfort during intercourse
- Urine that has a new, unusual odor
- Urine that is cloudy, dark, or bloody
- A persistent need to urinate
- A sense that you are unable to completely empty your bladder
- Fever
- Vaginal irritation
- Fatigue
UTI treatment and prevention
Even though you will need to visit PGOMG for a urine test to confirm that you have a bladder infection and obtain medication (likely antibiotics) in the event that you test positive, there are steps you can take to help prevent the condition.
- Take the time to urinate before and after sexual intercourse. This will help minimize any buildup of bacteria.
- Maintain consistent hydration throughout the day to help flush out any bacteria that may be in your system.
- Gently clean your genital area before and after sexual intercourse. Your partner should be encouraged to do the same, regardless of gender. Men can also develop UTIs.
Don’t put off treatment
With medication, symptoms from a UTI will start to clear up after a few days, and you should be fully clear of symptoms after a week. UTIs can be painful, so there is no need to delay a visit to PGOMG or to hope that it will simply go away. Remember, a UTI is an infection, and symptoms can increase in severity if it is left unattended.
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