A burning sensation when urinating, or the constant urge to use the bathroom, can be worrying and uncomfortable. These are some of the most common signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), a condition that many people experience at some point in their lives.
UTIs are very common, particularly among women, and nothing to feel embarrassed about. With the right care, they can be treated quickly and effectively. The key is recognising the symptoms early and getting professional help when needed.
With Health4Me health insurance, members have access to Unlimited GP consultations via Hello Doctor (chat, phone, or video) and unlimited GP visits at Network GPs. This means you can get fast, affordable care and the right treatment without delay.
Explore how health insurance with Bloom gives you access to affordable care when you need it most.
What is a UTI?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can occur in any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. In most cases, UTIs affect the bladder and urethra.
The most common cause is bacteria, especially E. coli, which normally live in the gut but can travel into the urinary tract through the urethra and cause infection.
UTIs can happen to anyone, but they are more common in women due to the shorter length of the female urethra. Everyday habits also play a role. Something as simple as holding urine for too long, not drinking enough water, or poor hygiene can increase the risk.
The good news? With early care and the right treatment, UTIs can be cleared up quickly and safely.
Common Symptoms of a UTI
UTIs often have clear warning signs. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Burning sensation when urinating – a sharp or stinging pain is a classic symptom.
- Strong, frequent urge to urinate – you may feel like rushing to the toilet often, but only pass a small amount each time.
- Cloudy, strong-smelling, or bloody urine – changes in colour or odour can be a sign of infection.
- Pressure or cramping in the lower abdomen – discomfort or heaviness in the bladder area.
These symptoms should never be ignored. If left untreated, a bladder infection can spread to the kidneys, which is more serious and harder to treat. Seeking medical help early makes recovery quicker and safer.
Risk Factors and Complications
Anyone can develop a UTI, but certain individuals are more prone to infection than others.
- Women are more prone, because the female urethra is shorter, and bacteria can reach the bladder more easily.
- Higher risk in people who:
- Hold in urine instead of going when they need to.
- Don’t drink enough water to flush out bacteria.
- Use certain contraceptives, such as diaphragms, which may increase the chance of infection.
If left untreated, a simple bladder infection can spread to the kidneys, causing a more serious infection that requires urgent medical care. Kidney infections can lead to severe pain, fever, and long-term health issues if not treated quickly.
This is why it’s important not to ignore UTI symptoms and to see a doctor as soon as they appear.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Getting the right diagnosis is the first step to feeling better. A GP will:
- Ask about your symptoms and medical history.
- Sometimes request a urine test to confirm the infection and identify the bacteria causing it.
The most common treatment for a UTI is a course of antibiotics, which are usually very effective in clearing up the infection. It’s important to:
- Finish the full course, even if you start feeling better after a few days.
- Never self-medicate or share antibiotics with others, as this can make infections harder to treat. Only a doctor can decide which treatment is safe and effective.
With Health4Me health insurance, you can see a doctor quickly, either at a Network GP or through Hello Doctor consultations, and get the right prescription without worrying about high consultation costs.
How to Prevent UTIs
While UTIs are common, there are simple steps you can take to lower your risk:
- Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps flush bacteria out of your urinary system before it can cause infection.
- Urinate regularly: Don’t hold in urine for too long. Emptying your bladder soon after sex also helps reduce the chance of bacteria causing an infection.
- Good hygiene: For women, wiping from front to back prevents bacteria from the anal area moving to the urethra.
- Avoid irritants: Harsh soaps, sprays, or certain feminine products can irritate the urinary tract and increase the risk of infection.
- Everyday awareness: Simple lifestyle habits, such as staying clean, drinking water, and paying attention to your body, can help reduce the risk of recurring infections.
These small changes can make a big difference in protecting your health and avoiding the discomfort of repeated UTIs.
When to See a Doctor
While some mild infections may improve with care at home, it’s important to know when to seek professional help. See a doctor if:
- Symptoms last more than a day or two without getting better.
- You develop a fever, back pain, or blood in your urine; these may be signs that the infection has spread to your kidneys.
Don’t wait. UTI treatment is usually simple and very effective, especially when started early.
With Health4Me health insurance, you don’t have to delay care because of cost concerns. Members can access Unlimited GP visits at Network GPs or speak to a Hello Doctor GP via chat, phone, or video, making it easy to get the right help when you need it.
UTIs are common, treatable, and preventable with the right care. Recognising the symptoms early, seeking professional help, and making small lifestyle changes can go a long way in protecting your health.
There’s no need for embarrassment; seeking help early is the best way to recover quickly and stay healthy.
Want affordable, reliable access to GP care when you need it most? Explore health insurance with Bloom and protect your health today.
