UTI Treatment in Augusta and Waterville, ME

What is a UTI?

A Urinary tract infection, or UTI, is an infection in the urinary system that is typically found in the bladder. Urinary tract infections are more often found in women than men. The symptoms of a urinary tract infection can be painful and uncomfortable but can be easily treated by Augusta & Waterville Women’s Care when caught early on. If you suspect that you may be experiencing symptoms of a UTI or are experiencing frequent UTIs, call (207) 877-7477 to schedule an appointment at our gynecology office in Augusta or Waterville, ME today!

Signs and Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection

It is important to stay vigilant of the following signs and symptoms to help identify if you are in fact suffering from a urinary tract infection:

• A burning feeling when you urinate
• A frequent urge to urinate
• Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
• Cloudy, dark, or bloody urine
• Strong-smelling urine
• Fever or chills
• Pelvic pain (more common in women)

If you experience one or more of these common UTI symptoms, contact Augusta & Waterville Women’s Care as soon as possible to receive early intervention and treatment at our office in Augusta or Waterville, ME.

Types of Urinary Tract Infections

• Kidneys (acute pyelonephritis): a severe kidney infection that includes symptoms such as a high fever, bloody/cloudy urine, and nausea and vomiting
• Bladder (cystitis): inflammation of the bladder caused by a bacterial infection, which typically results in frequent and painful urination
• Urethra (urethritis): burning urination with discharge

What Causes Urinary Tract Infections?

The most common cause of a urinary tract infection is when bacteria enters the urinary tract through the urethra and spreads toward the bladder. This bacteria can quickly multiply to reach the point of becoming a serious infection of the urinary tract. If the infection is not treated, it may continue on to affect the kidneys and their function.

Women are more prone to urinary tract infections than men due to the fact that females have a shorter urethra, which allows for a quicker introduction of bacteria to the bladder.

How Are Urinary Tract Infections Diagnosed?

A urine sample will be collected when you exhibit symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI). Diagnosis involves examining the urine sample through a microscope to detect any signs of infection. Cultures of the sample are analyzed to identify the specific bacteria responsible for the infection so appropriate treatment can be provided.

What Is the Treatment for a Urinary Tract Infection?

Your OBGYN usually treats urinary tract infections with antibiotics, though more substantial treatment may be needed if the infection has spread to other areas of the urinary system. Symptoms typically clear up within a few days of treatment, but it is often recommended to continue the antibiotics for up to a week or more.

Pain medication may be prescribed in addition to the antibiotics in order to numb the bladder and urethra that often cause a very unpleasant burning sensation during urination when a UTI is present.

How Can I Prevent Urinary Tract Infections?

Follow these lifestyle tips in order to prevent urinary tract infections in the future:

• Drink plenty of water
• Empty your bladder as soon as you feel the urge to urinate and ensure that you have emptied your bladder completely
• Wipe from front to back
• Urinate after sex to flush out any bacteria
• Avoid feminine products that may irritate the urinary system or genital area