What Every Woman Should Know About UTIs
(And Why They Sometimes Keep Coming Back)
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common infections I see in practice. If you have a vagina, chances are you've experienced one at some point — or you will. In fact, about 50–60% of women will develop a UTI at least once in their lifetime, and many will experience recurrent infections.
The good news is that most UTIs are treatable and often preventable once you understand why they happen.
Let's walk through the basics.
What is a UTI?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract and begin multiplying. Most infections involve the bladder (called cystitis), but bacteria can also travel upward and infect the kidneys if left untreated.
The most common bacteria responsible is Escherichia coli (E. coli), which normally lives in the digestive tract.
Common UTI Symptoms
Symptoms can vary, but common signs include:
Burning or pain when urinating
Frequent urge to urinate
Passing only small amounts of urine
Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
Pink or red urine (a sign of blood)
Pelvic pressure or lower abdominal discomfort
Some people may also experience pain during intercourse or a general feeling of bladder irritation.
If a kidney infection develops, symptoms can include fever, chills, back pain, nausea, or vomiting, which require urgent medical care.
Why Do UTIs Happen?
UTIs occur when bacteria travel up the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body) and reach the bladder.
Several factors can increase the risk.
Common risk factors include:
Female anatomy (shorter urethra makes bacterial entry easier)
Sexual activity
Certain birth control methods (spermicides or diaphragms)
Menopause and hormonal changes
Catheter use
Conditions that affect immune function
People with vaginas are more prone to UTIs because the urethra is shorter and located closer to the rectum, which makes bacterial transfer easier.
Men can also develop UTIs, but they are less common and may require further investigation.
How Can We Help Prevent UTIs?
While not every infection can be prevented, a few habits can significantly reduce risk.
Helpful strategies include:
Urinating after sexual activity
Drinking adequate water throughout the day
Avoiding spermicidal birth control if prone to UTIs
Wearing breathable cotton underwear
Avoiding scented hygiene products (pads, tampons, cleansers/soaps)
Supporting overall immune health through diet, sleep, and stress management
For people who experience recurrent UTIs, additional strategies may be helpful and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
How Are UTIs Treated?
Sometimes UTIs occur even when you are doing everything right — and that's okay. Treatment options are available and should be tailored to the individual situation.
Common treatment approaches may include:
Antibiotics (first-line treatment for most confirmed infections)
D-mannose to help prevent bacterial adhesion in the bladder
Probiotics to support the microbiome, particularly after antibiotics
Cranberry products which may reduce recurrence risk in some individuals
Herbal support such as Arctostaphylos uva-ursi with practitioner guidance
Topical vaginal estrogen for individuals with a low estrogen state (menopause/post-partum)
In more severe cases — such as kidney infections — hospital treatment or IV antibiotics may be required.
When Should You Seek Medical Care?
UTIs should always be taken seriously.
You should seek medical care if you experience:
Fever or chills
Back or kidney pain
Nausea or vomiting
Symptoms that worsen or do not improve
Recurrent infections
Proper diagnosis is important because not all urinary symptoms are caused by infection. If you experience recurrent UTIs or ongoing bladder symptoms, it may be time to reach out for support so we can identify the underlying factors and create a plan to prevent future infections.
The Bottom Line
UTIs are common, uncomfortable, and sometimes frustrating — but they are also very manageable with the right care.
Understanding the risk factors, prevention strategies, and treatment options can go a long way in protecting urinary and bladder health.
If you suspect a UTI, it's always best to speak with a healthcare provider such as an ND, MD, or pharmacist to ensure appropriate treatment.
UTIs are common and very treatable. But if they keep coming back despite doing everything right, there is usually more to the picture. Book a meet and greet with Dr. Kirsten to help find your solutions!
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a naturopath for a UTI rather than going to a pharmacist or walk-in clinic? Pharmacists and walk-in clinics are well-equipped to treat a single, uncomplicated UTI. If you experience recurrent infections (two or more in six months, or three or more in a year), it is worth booking with a naturopathic doctor to investigate what is driving the pattern. Underlying factors including hormonal changes, microbiome imbalance, and immune function are often not addressed in a single appointment.
Do natural options like D-mannose and cranberry actually work for UTI prevention? Both have supporting research for reducing recurrence. D-mannose may help prevent E. coli from adhering to the bladder wall. Cranberry products, particularly those standardized for proanthocyanidins, have shown benefit in some studies for reducing recurrence frequency. They are best used as part of a broader prevention plan rather than as a replacement for treatment of an active infection.
Can hormonal changes in your 40s cause more frequent UTIs? Yes. As estrogen declines during perimenopause, the tissues of the vagina and urethra thin and the protective bacterial environment shifts. This can make the urinary tract more vulnerable to infection. If you are in your 40s and noticing more frequent UTIs alongside other hormonal symptoms, it is worth exploring the connection. [Read more about recurrent UTIs and perimenopause here.] (Add link to new post once published.)
Where can I get support for recurrent UTIs in Kelowna? Ivy Health Clinic is located at 202-2900 Pandosy St in Kelowna, BC. Our team offers naturopathic assessment and integrative support for urinary tract infections, including recurrent cases. Book online at ivyhealthclinic.janeapp.com or call 250-410-4406. Virtual appointments are available for patients across British Columbia.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Kirsten Storoshenko, ND is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor at Ivy Health Clinic offering both in-person and virtual care across British Columbia. Her practice focuses on uncovering root causes of chronic concerns including gut health, hormones, sleep, energy, and immune function. Meet Dr. Kirsten
