Where does a UTI occur?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) can occur anywhere in your urinary tract. Most UTIs occur in the lower tract, which includes your urethra and bladder. If a UTI is not treated promptly, the bacteria can spread to the kidneys. The resulting kidney infection, called pyelonephritis, is the most serious type of UTI. It can lead to life-threatening complications, including kidney damage and the spread of the infection to your bloodstream.

Will a UTI occur every time bacteria enter the bladder?
No. Normally, the body removes any bacteria in the bladder through urination, and most individuals do not exhibit any symptoms of infection. Also, some individuals, especially older adults, have bacteria in the bladder that does not cause any signs or symptoms. This condition, known as asymptomatic bacteriuria, does not typically pose any health risks.

Do burning and frequent urination always indicate a UTI?
No. Although these are common symptoms of UTIs, they may also indicate the presence of another condition called urethral syndrome. Urethral syndrome is the name given to a group of symptoms that affect the bladder, but cannot be attributed to a specific cause, such as bacterial infection. Only a doctor can determine whether a UTI or urethral syndrome is present. A condition known as interstitial cystitis can also mimic a UTI, but it is not related to infection. Interstitial cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder wall.

Are UTIs associated with sexual intercourse?
Yes. Sexual intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urethra. In addition, the use of some types of contraceptives, such as spermicides and diaphragms increase the risk of UTIs in women. If you have a sexually transmitted disease, such as chlamydia or herpes simplex virus, you also have an increased risk of UTIs.

Can men get UTIs?
Yes. Although UTIs are more common in women, men can get them. In fact, UTIs in men are generally more serious and more difficult to treat. A small number of men may contract a UTI through intercourse with an infected partner. This risk is greater in men who are uncircumcised.

Do pregnant women have the same risks as women who are not pregnant?
No. If you are pregnant, you are more likely to develop a UTI. The infection is also more likely to travel to your kidneys because of hormonal changes and repositioning of the urinary tract.

What medications are used to treat UTIs?
Urinary tract infections are typically treated with antibiotics, which eliminate the bacteria causing the infection. Antibiotics must be prescribed by a doctor. Most are safe to use during pregnancy.

How long will antibiotic treatment last?
Treatment varies in duration from 3 to 10 days depending on the type of bacteria present and the severity of the infection. If you are healthy and not pregnant, your UTI can probably be cured in two to three days. If you have a severe upper tract infection, you may require hospitalization and intravenous administration of antibiotics. If you are pregnant, have kidney stones or diabetes, you may require 7- to 10-day treatment. And if your male partner has a UTI, he will probably also require longer treatment because bacteria can bury themselves deep inside his prostate tissue.

Can I stop taking antibiotics when I begin to feel better?
No. Don't stop taking your antibiotics before your doctor says it's okay. If you stop taking antibiotics too soon, some bacteria may be left in your urinary tract. These bacteria can quickly multiply and cause another bout of the same infection. Further, if you stop taking your antibiotics before all the bacteria are killed, the bacteria can change, or mutate, into another form of bacteria that is more difficult to treat. This increases the risk of being infected by bacteria that withstand antibiotics, a phenomenon known as antibiotic resistance. Such resistance is a worldwide health-care concern. Several antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria already exist, and new ones are emerging frequently.

How much water should I be drinking while I have a UTI?
Aim for six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water every day. This helps to flush out any bacteria that may be present. You should continue to drink this much water even after your infection is gone. It makes it more difficult for bacteria to become established in your bladder.

If I get UTIs frequently, is there anything I can do on my own?
Yes. Some women may be able to self-treat. For instance, if you frequently develop a UTI after sexual activity, you may be able to take a single dose of antibiotics following intercourse. Additionally, women with recurrent UTIs can now monitor their urine with at-home urine cultures and special dipsticks that detect the onset of bacteria before symptoms of infection begin. If you have frequent UTIs, talk to your doctor about these options.

Is there a vaccine for UTIs?
Not yet. However, scientists supported by the National Institutes of Health are developing one. The vaccine may be a pill to increase the strength of the body's infection-fighting cells or a suppository to be inserted in the vagina.