A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can occur anywhere along the urinary tract. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria, such as E.coli, that live in the colon (especially the rectum). Women are more prone to UTIs than men due to a shorter urethra which opens nearer to the anus, thus making it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary system to cause an infection.

Symptoms may include:

  • Lower pelvic discomfort, lower back ache
  • stinging, painful, or frequent urination along with an urgent need to urinate, often with little or no urine being passed
  • Blood in urine
  • Fevers, chills, nausea and vomiting if infection travels to the kidneys

Recurrent UTIs are classified as two or more lab-proven UTIs within 6 months OR three or more lab-proven UTIs within 12 months.

For more information on preventing and treating UTIs, please refer to the Patient Information page.