Urinary Tract Infections: Frequently Asked Questions

UTI symptoms and recognition

What are the three symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection?

The three common symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) include a burning sensation while urinating, a frequent or urgent need to urinate, and cloudy, strong-smelling, or bloody urine. You may also notice lower abdominal discomfort or feel generally unwell.

What does a very mild UTI feel like?

A very mild UTI may cause slight discomfort or a mild burning sensation when you urinate. You might notice a subtle increase in the need to urinate or a slight urgency, but signs are often mild and easy to overlook.

What are the initial symptoms of a UTI?

The initial symptoms of a UTI often include a mild burning sensation when urinating, slight urgency or frequency, and subtle discomfort in the lower abdomen. Early symptoms can be easily overlooked, so adequate attention helps prevent the infection from worsening.

What are the signs that a UTI is getting worse?

If your UTI is getting worse, you may feel stronger burning or pain when you urinate. You will also notice more frequent or urgent trips to the bathroom, see cloudy or bloody urine, or experience lower abdominal or back pain, fever, chills, or nausea. 

What does a UTI discharge look like?

UTI discharge usually appears as cloudy or discolored urine, sometimes with reddish-brown or pink streaks from blood. You might notice white particles from white blood cells fighting the infection and a strong or foul odor. 

UTI causes and risk factors

What are the five most common causes of UTIs?

The five most common causes of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are bacteria, especially Escherichia coli (E. coli), entering the urinary tract, specific birth control methods, conditions that block the urinary tract or make it hard to fully empty your bladder, increased sexual activity, and the use of urinary catheters.

Can dehydration cause UTI?

Yes, dehydration can increase your risk of a Urinary Tract Infection. When you don’t drink enough water, your urine becomes concentrated, and you urinate less often, which allows bacteria to multiply in the urinary tract. Staying hydrated helps flush out bacteria and reduce UTI risk.

If I am stressed, will it cause a UTI?

No, stress doesn’t directly cause a UTI, but it may weaken the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight infections. Stress and other risk factors may increase your risk of UTIs. Staying healthy and managing stress can help lower the risk.

Why do I get a UTI every time I have sex?

You may be experiencing honeymoon cystitis, a type of UTI triggered by sexual activity. Sex can bring in bacteria into your urinary tract, especially E. coli. That risk increases if you don’t urinate soon after intercourse, use specific birth control methods, or have a sensitive urinary tract. 

Can I have sex with a UTI?

No, it’s best to avoid sex when you have a UTI. Sex can worsen your symptoms, increase irritation, and may push more bacteria into your urinary tract, making the infection harder to heal. You should wait until your infection is fully treated and your symptoms are gone before resuming sexual activity.

Can an STI cause a UTI?

Yes, some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can cause symptoms similar to a UTI or increase your risk of one. Infections like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, or Trichomoniasis can irritate the urinary tract, making it easier for the bacteria to cause a UTI. Testing helps identify the exact cause.

How can I differentiate between a UTI and an STI?

UTIs usually cause burning during urination, frequent urges to pee, and cloudy or bloody urine. STIs may also cause burning, but often include symptoms like unusual vaginal or penile discharge, sores, itching, or pelvic pain. Since symptoms overlap, testing is the only way to know for sure.

UTI diagnosis & treatment

What is the best antibiotic for UTI?

Nitrofurantoin, Fosfomycin, and Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole are common first-line antibiotics for uncomplicated UTIs. The best choice depends on the infection type, the bacteria involved, and local resistance patterns. Always follow your healthcare provider’s prescription and guidance for safe and effective treatment.

What is the fastest way to get rid of a Urinary Tract Infection?

The quickest way to get rid of a UTI is by taking prescribed antibiotics, which target the bacteria causing the infection. Drinking plenty of water, urinating often, and avoiding irritants like caffeine or alcohol can help ease symptoms. Always complete your full course of medication.

How long does it take to flush out a Urinary Tract Infection?

Fluids alone cannot flush out a UTI. Antibiotics are usually needed. With treatment, many people start feeling better within 1–3 days, but symptoms may take up to a week to clear fully. Drinking water helps support recovery, but always finish your prescribed medication.

What habits do I avoid during a UTI?

When you have a UTI, avoid holding in your urine, drinking caffeine or alcohol, and skipping water since these can worsen symptoms. Also, avoid sex until your infection clears and don’t stop antibiotics early without medical guidance, even if you feel better, to ensure the infection is fully treated.

What should I eat if I have a UTI?

If you have a UTI, drink plenty of water and eat healthy foods. Berries, leafy greens, and whole grains are better choices, and adding yogurt or kefir can boost your body with probiotics to support your immune system and keep your urinary tract healthy.