Have ever had that girls tell you she has UTIs, first time I thout it was some food or something like that😂 So funny right!
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are a prevalent health concern globally, particularly affecting women, children, and the elderly.
The fact is that UTIs are hurting a lot of girls out there because are more common in females than males, with studies reporting a prevalence of 69% in females compared to 31% in males.
UTIs attach your urinary tract which includes your kidneys, ureters (tubes that carry pee from your kidneys to your bladder), bladder, and urethra (the tube that lets pee out).
Sometimes, bacteria can get into this system, usually through your urethra, and that’s when the problems start.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are a prevalent health concern globally, particularly affecting women, children, and the elderly.
In regions like Uganda and across Africa, where access to healthcare resources may be limited, UTIs pose significant challenges due to their potential to escalate into more severe conditions if left untreated.
That’s why Teamwork Homecare, is committed to sensitize as many young and old, female and male with awareness, preventive measures, and innovative healthcare solutions to help reduce Urinary Tract Infections to the least statistic.
Let’s get this Right?
UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract, usually through the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body). These bacteria can travel up the urethra and multiply in the bladder, ureters (tubes connecting the kidneys to the bladder), or even the kidneys.
Urinary Tract Infections have types such as;
- Urethritis: Infection of the urethra, causing burning sensation during urination.
- Cystitis: Infection of the bladder, the most common type of UTI, with symptoms like frequent urination, pain, and burning sensation.
- Pyelonephritis: Infection of the kidneys, the most severe form of UTI, requiring immediate medical attention due to the risk of complications.
Major Causes of UTIs in Uganda:
Bacteria: Similar to other parts of the world, the most common cause of UTIs in Ugandan women is bacteria, primarily:
- Escherichia coli (E. coli): This is the most frequent culprit, found in 41.9% of UTI cases in Bushenyi District, Uganda, according to a 2019 study.
E. coli bacteria
- Staphylococcus aureus: This bacteria is responsible for 31.4% of UTIs in the same study.
- Other less common bacteria include Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Enterococcus faecalis, and Pseudomonas.
Other factors: Besides bacteria, several additional factors can increase the risk of UTIs in women:
- Frequent sexual activity: This can introduce bacteria into the urethra, increasing the chance of infection.
- Wiping from back to front: This can transfer bacteria from the anus to the urethra.
- Holding urine for extended periods: This allows bacteria to multiply in the bladder.
- Anatomical factors: Women have a shorter urethra compared to men, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.
- Certain medical conditions: Diabetes, urinary stones, and pregnancy can also increase the risk of UTIs.
Signs and Symptoms of UTIs
While symptoms may vary depending on the type and severity of the UTI, some common signs include:
- Frequent urination: Feeling the need to urinate frequently, even when there’s little urine to pass.
- Dysuria: Pain or burning sensation during urination.
- Hematuria: Blood in the urine.
- Urgency: Feeling a sudden, strong urge to urinate.
- Pelvic pain: Discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen or around the pelvis, especially in women.
Women are more susceptible to UTIs compared to men due to the shorter urethra.
Women are particularly vulnerable due to cultural practices, such as inadequate access to sanitation facilities and reluctance to seek medical care due to stigma or financial constraints.
There’s hope! Lets see how you can pretect yourself from getting a Urinary Tract Infections Infection;
Living in Uganda esp, poor hygiene regions of Kampala and the surrouding comes with additional challenges in preventing UTIs. However, some crucial steps can significantly reduce the risk:
- Maintaining proper hygiene: Wiping from front to back after using the toilet, washing genitals daily, and avoiding harsh soaps are essential.
- Urinating frequently and completely: Holding urine can allow bacteria to multiply. Empty your bladder completely when you urinate.
- Drinking plenty of fluids: Water helps flush out bacteria from the urinary tract. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily.
- Cranberry juice: While not a foolproof solution, some studies suggest cranberry juice may help prevent UTIs.
- Proper sanitation: Access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities is crucial in preventing UTIs. Teamwork Homecare can collaborate with communities to improve these essential resources.
You’re not alone!
If you have any of the signs and symptoms above, please Contact Teamwork Homecare fo help at your home immediately, our Experienced Gynecologists will help you through
Call or WhatsApp
Airtel: 0200-909453
MTN: 039-256331
We are located at Naalya Estates, Golden Apartments
Or email us
Or visit our website
That’s been a Wrap, I hope you enjoyed this, if you did kindly give it a like 👍 and share with all those that may need it. 🙏
Lets catch up in the next one✌
Teamwork Homecare Team.
