Urinary tract infections in women

Home Urinary tract infections in women

Preventing and treating recurrent cystitis

Burning or urinary tract infections in women: Professor François Haab offers a complete assessment and appropriate treatment for women.

Introduction

Introduction

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common in women. They manifest as burning during urination, a more frequent urge to urinate, pelvic pain, or persistent discomfort. They can be simple and occasional, but some women experience recurrent infections, affecting their quality of life. A poorly treated UTI can spread to the kidneys (pyelonephritis) and lead to complications. A thorough evaluation can identify the cause and prevent recurrences.

Common symptoms

  • A burning or tingling sensation during urination
  • Persistent discomfort after urinating
  • Urine sometimes cloudy or foul-smelling
  • Need to urinate very frequently
  • Low urine volumes
  • Discomfort in daily activities
  • A feeling of tension, heaviness, or pressure
  • Pain worsened during or after urination
  • Pinkish or reddish coloration
  • May indicate significant inflammation
  • Never neglect: risk of kidney infection.

Why are urinary tract infections more common in women?

Female anatomy: A shorter urethra facilitates the ascent of bacteria. Sexual life: Certain sexual acts can promote the migration of bacteria to the bladder. Hormonal variations: Postpartum, menopause, and menstrual cycle fluctuations weaken the urinary tract lining. Hygiene or urinary habits : Wiping, dehydration, and urinary retention. Medical factors: Prolapse, diabetes, vaginal dryness, constipation, and bladder emptying problems.

Possible causes of urinary tract infections

  • Escherichia coli (80–85%)
  • Proteus, Klebsiella, Enterococcus…
  • Often after menopause, there is a change in the protective flora.
  • Urine residue
  • Perineal hypertonia
  • Prolapse
  • Recent report
  • Changes in vaginal flora
  • Use of spermicides, certain condoms…
  • Local irritation
  • Partial obstruction, superinfection
  • Surgery
  • Recent probe
  • Recurrent infections

Diagnosis

A precise assessment makes it possible to distinguish between: simple infection, recurrent infection, complicated infection or infection linked to an underlying disorder.

1. Medical interview

  • Context of emergence
  • Relapses
  • Triggering factors
  • Hydration method
  • Sex life
  • Gynecological history

2. Clinical examination

  • Research on pelvic pain
  • Signs of vaginal dryness
  • Prolapse or anatomical abnormality

3. Additional examinations

  • ECBU : essential in case of suspicion or recurrence
  • Rapid urine test (strip)
  • Ultrasound in case of pain, fever or relapses
  • Gynecological examination if dryness or dyspareunia
  • Analysis of bladder emptying if retention is suspected

In case of recurrence, a more thorough assessment may be necessary.

Possible treatments

  • Adapted according to the result of the urine culture.
  • Short duration for simple infections.
  • Vaginal dryness: local treatment
  • Drainage problems: perineal rehabilitation or mechanical correction
  • Constipation: specific treatment
  • Urinary stones: laser or endoscopic treatment
  • Regular hydration
  • Cranberry (as directed)
  • Vaginal probiotics
  • Appropriate hygiene practices
  • Post-intercourse urination (recommended)
  • Changing habits
  • Local hormonal treatments (post-menopause)
  • Prophylactic antibiotic therapy (selected cases)
  • Regular monitoring

Why consult Professor Haab?

  • Recognized expertise in female functional urology
  • Complete and personalized assessment
  • Integrated care: urological, perineal, gynecological
  • Solutions tailored for women who are active, postpartum, or perimenopausal
  • A caring and non-invasive approach is preferred.

Patient Journey

Each patient benefits from personalized support, from the initial consultation to post-treatment follow-up. The process includes a thorough assessment, a clear presentation of the various treatment options, and a gradual approach tailored to each individual’s situation.

Do you experience burning during urination or recurring infections?

Don’t let these symptoms persist. Urology Clinic Paris Opéra – Paris 17th. In-person or teleconsultation available. Book your appointment today.

Your needs

Urinary tract infections in women

My review in video

My review in video

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Why do we get recurrent urinary tract infections?

Recurrent cystitis can be explained by several contributing factors: insufficient hydration, infrequent urination, constipation, sexual intercourse, menopause, or, more rarely, an abnormality of the urinary tract. The evaluation aims to identify these factors in order to address them.

When should you consult a urologist?

A consultation is necessary from 3 to 4 cystitis episodes per year, in case of blood in the urine, associated fever (sign of kidney damage), or systematically in case of urinary tract infection in men.

How to prevent relapses?

Effective measures include hydration of at least 1.5 liters per day, regular urination and urination after intercourse, combating constipation and, as appropriate, cranberry, local estrogens after menopause or targeted antibiotic prophylaxis.

What tests are performed in cases of recurrent infections?

The assessment usually includes a urine culture and sensitivity test (UCST), an ultrasound of the urinary tract with measurement of post-void residual urine and, depending on the case, a cystoscopy to examine the bladder wall.

Pr François Haab's expertise

Chirurgien Urologue à Paris

Pr François Haab

Urinary tract infections in women: there are solutions.