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Signs & Symptoms of UTI in Women

Urinary tract infections (UTI) can be common occurrences in some women. According The University of Maryland Medical Center the bacteria that causes the infection is ten times more common in women than in men. A UTI can cause symptoms that may mimic other conditions and this may cause a lag seeking in medical treatment. Therefore paying close attention to any signs or symptoms in the beginning can save you from a more serious medical condition.

  1. Chills and Fever

    • In severe cases of UTI chills and fever will occur. Some people mistakenly believe that they have a case of the flu or a cold and try to treat themselves with over-the-counter medications. This allows the UTI to worsen and in some cases it can lead to an infection in the bladder, and hospitalization may be needed to fully treat the condition.

    Foul-Smelling Urine

    • Strong or foul-smelling urine is a key symptom of a urinary tract infection. Many times, this is observed before any other signs or symptoms. The smell will be the strongest in the morning's first urine. It will usually be less foul smelling during the day but may still be noticeable to some. Some people tend to pass it off or do not believe the odor is coming from them. However, along with a foul smell the urine will also appear dark in color and may even be cloudy.

    Feeling of Urgency

    • A feeling of urgency or a need to frequently go to the bathroom is also an important sign that you may have a UTI. Often the person may go to the bathroom and then be able to expel only a small amount of urine. The person may feel a pain and pressure in their bladder and as this worsens the situation may escalate into incontinence.

    Urinating on Self

    • Accidentally urinating on oneself is also a warning sign that you may have a UTI. This can be caused by the weakening of muscles and inflammation due to the infection. Many people feel a loss of control with their bladder. Some believe that this is due to the increased urgency they are experiencing. However, the only way to cure this symptom is to seek medical treatment and start antibiotics.

    Pain During Sex

    • The website for Family Doctor reports that many women who suffer from UTI's will also have pain during intercourse. The pain is caused by the traumatic act of sex itself. The man's penis will rub against the woman's urethra causing increased irritation to an already painful area of the woman's body. The pain can become so severe that some women mistakenly believe that they have a sexually transmitted disease.

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