Burning while you pee? Suddenly need to pee but only passing a small amount of urine? Cloudy, pink, or strong smelling urine? If any of these sound familiar, you may be experiencing a urinary tract infection or UTI.

What is a UTI or urinary tract infection?

A UTI refers to a bacterial infection in the urinary system. While UTIs can affect men, women, and children, they are more commonly observed in women due to differences in anatomy.

Do I need to seek medical attention, or will it resolve on its own?

UTIs are generally treatable, but leaving them untreated may lead to complications such as recurring infections, permanent kidney damage, urethral narrowing in men, or sepsis.

How is a UTI treated?

To determine the appropriate treatment, your doctor will discuss the symptoms you’re experiencing and may request a urine sample to identify the bacteria causing the infection. Typically, UTIs are treated with antibiotics, and your healthcare provider will determine the most suitable antibiotic and its duration. It is essential to adhere to your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better before completing the medication.

What if I’m pregnant?

UTIs are very common in pregnant women especially during the early part of your pregnancy. This is because as your uterus grows it can put pressure on your bladder and block your urine from draining properly causing an infection.

Antibiotics are most commonly used to treat a UTI and can be safely used during pregnancy. An untreated UTI can lead to a kidney infection which is associated with early labour and low birth weight, however, treating a UTI early can help avoid any of these complications.

When you speak to a doctor, remember to let them know that you are expecting and they will provide an appropriate treatment plan.

How can I prevent getting a UTI?

A few steps can help prevent getting a UTI in the future:

• Drink plenty of water—it can help flush bacteria from your body.
• Wipe front to back—this can help make sure that bacteria from fecal matter does not spread to the vagina or urethra.
• Pee after intercourse—this can help flush bacteria away.
• Avoid feminine products that can irritate the area, like douches, powders, and sprays—this may irritate the urethra.
• Try another birth control method—diaphragms and spermicidal agents can increase your risk of getting a UTI. You can talk to a doctor during your walk in appointment about other birth control options.

Can someone at Teston Medical help me?

Of course! Schedule a doctor’s appointment at our walk in facility in Vaughan and one of our team members will be happy to help. Our licensed Canadian physicians can help diagnose and can also provide prescriptions.

If a urine test is required, our doctors will help find a nearby facility who can help carry out the test.