Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection of the urinary system (kidneys, ureters, bladder or urethra).
Overview
A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria (or less commonly fungi) enter and multiply in the urinary system, usually in the bladder. UTIs are one of the most common bacterial infections, especially in women — around 1 in 2 women will experience at least one in their lifetime (AIHW). They can affect men and children too.
Common Misunderstandings
Many think UTIs are always due to poor hygiene, but factors like anatomy, hormonal changes, sexual activity, and microbiome health all play a role. Recurrent UTIs can be especially frustrating, with cycles of antibiotics sometimes offering only short-term relief.
Microbiome Connection
- The bladder is not sterile — healthy people have a urinary microbiome that may help prevent infection (1).
- A reduction in protective bacteria, such as Lactobacillus species in women, can make UTIs more likely.
- Gut microbiome disturbances may act as a reservoir for UTI-causing bacteria like Escherichia coli, which can migrate to the bladder (2).
- Restoring microbiome balance significantly helps to reduce recurrence risk
Symptoms
Burning or Stinging
Burning or stinging when passing urine
Urge to Urinate
Frequent urge to urinate, even with little urine
Smelly Urine
Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
Adominal Discomfort
Lower abdominal discomfort
In Severe Cases
In severe cases: fever or back pain (possible kidney infection)
The Microbiome Clinic™
Our treatment approach for UTIs includes:
Vaginal Microbiome Test
The Vaginal Microbiome Test identifies imbalances and pathogens in the vaginal flora to explain symptoms and guide precise, personalised treatment and prevention.
Targeted Antimicrobial Strategies
Antibiotics and plant-based/pharmaceutical antimicrobials (where appropriate) to reduce the overgrown population of unwanted bacteria in the gut and vagina.
Probiotics and Prebiotics
Targeted probiotics and prebiotics are introduced slowly to restore balance and biodiversity of microbes in the gut and vagina without fuelling overgrowth.
Individualised Nutrition Plans
Such as avoiding acidic, spicy, mouldy or sugary ingredients that might promote inflammation, irritate the bladder or promote growth of yeast.
Been diagnosed with a UTI?
References
- Brubaker L, Wolfe AJ. Nat Rev Urol. 2017;14:453–461. doi:10.1038/s41585-019-0191-4.
- Magruder M, et al. Nat Microbiol. 2019;4:19–25. doi:10.1038/s41564-019-0561-1.