A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a type of infection that can happen in any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, urethra, bladder, and ureters. The bladder and urethra are the most common places a UTI happens, but in more severe infections, it can spread to the kidney.
UTIs happen when bacteria comes into the urinary tract through the urethra and spreads throughout the urinary system.
Symptoms of a UTI include:
- A burning sensation while urinating
- A strong urge to urinate that doesn't go away
- Urinating often
- Urine that looks cloudy, red, pink, or brown
- Smelly urine
- Pelvic pain
Women are more likely than men to get UTIs. Antibiotics are the most common treatment, but there are also steps you can take to avoid a UTI, including urinating after sexual intercourse, staying hydrated, and wiping from front to back after going to the bathroom.