Does A UTI Affect Your Period?

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are frequently seen in women, particularly in older women who are at a higher risk.
  
  
• Various factors can contribute to the development of UTIs, including stress, menopause, sexual activity, dehydration, and intense physical exercise.
  
  
• Hormonal fluctuations during menstruation may potentially elevate the likelihood of UTI occurrence.
  
  
• Multiple strategies to reduce the risk of UTIs during menstruation include incorporating probiotics into your routine, increasing water intake, and effectively managing stress.
  
  
• UTIs in pregnant women can lead to severe consequences, including kidney infections and premature labour.

Many women will likely experience a urinary tract infection (UTI) at least once.

The likelihood of getting a UTI increases as we age, but some factors can also make it more likely. UTIs are the most common infection you can treat alone without staying in the hospital.

In this article, we will talk about UTIs, how they relate to your menstrual cycle, things that can affect your periods, ways to prevent both UTIs and missed periods and when you should get help from a doctor.

What Is A UTI?

A UTI, short for urinary tract infection, is common, especially in women. Women are more prone to UTIs because their urethras are more straightforward than men's, which makes it easier for bacteria to get into the bladder.

Most UTIs affect the lower urinary tract (bladder and urethra), but more severe cases can spread to the kidneys and other organs.

Look out for these common UTI symptoms:

• Pain or discomfort when peeing
  
  
• Strong urge to pee, even if only a little comes out
  
  
• Dark, bloody, or cloudy urine
  
  
• Unusual urine odor
  
  
• Fever and chills
  
  
• Feeling tired

In severe UTIs, you might experience:

• Higher fever
  
  
• Ongoing pain in the lower abdomen, back, or groin

You can often tell if you have a UTI based on these symptoms. You can even buy a dipstick test over the counter to check for a UTI at home.

While you can identify a UTI yourself, treating it might require prescription medication, and severe cases should be seen by a healthcare professional.

Key Point: Understanding Different Types Of UTIs

There are three main types of UTIs, each named according to where they occur in the urinary system.

• Cystitis: This type involves inflammation of the bladder, leading to painful urination.
  
  
• Pyelonephritis: It's an inflammation of the kidneys, often referred to as a kidney infection. Symptoms may include back or side pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting.
  
  
• Urethritis: This condition involves inflammation of the urethra, typically marked by symptoms like discharge or a burning sensation during urination.

While most UTIs can be managed at home, there's a rare risk of complications. If the infection spreads into the bloodstream, urosepsis can develop.

If you experience symptoms such as fever, extreme fatigue, confusion, breathing problems, or a rapid heart rate, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Are Periods And UTIs Connected?

It's common to think that urinary tract infections (UTIs) and periods might be related because they can coincide, but their connection is indirect. It's important to note that a UTI cannot:

• Cause a missed period: While a UTI can stress the body and potentially lead to a period that's early, late, or irregular, it typically doesn't cause your period to be entirely skipped.
  
  
• Directly impact your reproductive organs: UTIs affect the urinary system, not the organs themselves.

Does The Timing Of My Menstrual Cycle Increase The Risk Of A UTI?

Indeed, certain factors and behaviours can make you more susceptible to a urinary tract infection (UTI) during your period. Many women experience UTIs during this time due to the following risk factors:

• Stress: The pain and discomfort associated with menstruation can weaken the body's defences against bacterial infections, making it more susceptible to UTIs.
  
  
• Hormone Imbalances: Estrogen, which protects against UTIs, tends to be lower during menstrual. This hormonal shift can increase the vulnerability to bacterial infections.
  
  
• Sexual Activity: Some women may engage in more sexual activity during their periods because of a reduced risk of pregnancy. However, sexual intercourse can disrupt the vaginal pH balance and further irritate the already sensitive urethra, raising the risk of UTIs.
  
  
• Feminine Hygiene Products: The use of pads, tampons, or menstrual cups can create conditions that promote bacterial growth and infections, particularly if these products are not changed frequently
  
  
• Dehydration: Menstruation can lead to the loss of fluids from the body. Staying well-hydrated during your period helps flush bacteria from your system and can reduce the likelihood of UTIs. Drinking plenty of water is essential during this time.

How Does A UTI Affect My Period?

As mentioned earlier, UTIs do not directly influence your menstrual cycle. While UTIs can potentially lead to hormonal imbalances due to stress, they are unlikely to be the primary cause of significant changes in your menstrual cycle, such as a delayed period.

If you notice substantial alterations in your monthly cycle, it is essential to explore other potential causes. A UTI by itself should not lead to a delayed period.

If you have concerns about a late period or hormonal changes, or if you experience recurrent UTIs, it's advisable to seek guidance from your healthcare provider or consult a board-certified gynaecologist for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate advice.

What Are Some Factors That Can Cause A UTI Or Delay My Period?

It's true that various factors, including those mentioned, can potentially lead to hormonal changes and, in some cases, contribute to a late period or the development of a UTI:

• Stress
  
  
• Pregnancy
  
  
• Sexual activity and birth control
  
  
• Menopause

Key Point: Increased UTI Risk In Older Individuals

UTIs are more prevalent among older women for several reasons, including:

• Using catheters
  
  
• A weakened immune system
  
  
• Kidney damage
  
  
• Urinary surgery or exams
  
  
• More difficulty in taking care of their basic hygiene
  
  
• Menopause
  
  
• A weakened pelvic floor

How Can I Reduce The Risk Of Developing A UTI During My Period?

Preventing UTIs During Your Period and Anytime:

Everyday Preventive Measures:

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out harmful bacteria naturally.
  
  
• Cranberry Juice: Consider drinking cranberry juice or taking cranberry supplements, which may help prevent UTIs.
  
  
• Avoid Irritants: Stay away from feminine products like douches, scented soaps, or lotions that can irritate your urinary tract.
  
  
• Proper Wiping: After a bowel movement, always wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from reaching your urethra.
  
  
• Birth Control Choices: Be cautious with birth control methods like diaphragms, as they can promote bacterial growth.
  
  
• Don't Delay Bathroom Breaks: When you need to urinate, don't hold it in. Use the restroom promptly.
  
  
• Post-Sex Urination: Make a habit of urinating after sexual intercourse to help flush out any bacteria that may have entered your urinary tract.
  
  
• Sex Toy Hygiene: If you use sex toys, clean them thoroughly between uses to avoid bacterial transfer.

Preventative Measures Specifically During Your Period:

• Probiotics: Consider taking probiotics to boost good bacteria in your urinary tract, which can be helpful both during and outside your period.
  
  
• Proper Menstrual Product Usage: Change your pads, tampons, or menstrual cups regularly according to instructions to prevent infection.
  
  
• Sexual Contact Awareness: To prevent UTI flare-ups during your period, consider reducing or abstaining from sexual activity that might irritate a sensitized urethra or introduce harmful bacteria into your vagina.
  
  
• Stay Hydrated: Drink extra water during your period to compensate for fluid loss from menstruation.
  
  
• Partner Health: Ensure that both partners are free of conditions like yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, or UTIs before engaging in sexual activity.
  
  
• Sanitary Pad Option: If you frequently get UTIs, consider using unscented pads instead of tampons.
  
  
• Post-Sex Hydration: If you're sexually active during your period, remember to urinate after sex. Drinking a glass of water shortly after can help, too.
  
  
• Stress Management: Keep stress levels in check to help balance hormones and bolster your immune system.

By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of UTIs during your period and maintain good urinary tract health year-round.

Do Antibiotics Affect My Menstrual Cycle?

Antibiotics effectively treat UTIs, and several preferred options are available, including trimethoprim, nitrofurantoin, and fosfomycin. These antibiotics work by eliminating the bacteria causing the UTI. However, it's important to note that antibiotics can influence your menstrual period.

If you are worried about the overuse of antibiotics, discussing your concerns with a healthcare provider is advisable. In some cases, for mild UTIs, antibiotics may not be necessary for treatment, and alternative approaches can be explored under medical guidance.

What Are Some Reasons My Period May Be Delayed?

Hormonal imbalances can indeed lead to a delayed period, and in many instances, it's not a cause for undue worry. Several factors can contribute to a late period, including:

• Increased Stress
  
  
• Weight Changes
  
  
• Dietary Changes
  
  
• New Medications
  
  
• Thyroid Dysfunction
  
  
• Changes in Sleeping Patterns
  
  
• Increased or Excessive Exercise
  
  
• PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
  
  
• Perimenopause

If you suspect you might be pregnant and your period is late, you can take a home pregnancy test. If multiple tests show positive results, scheduling an appointment with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance is advisable.

Pregnancy Symptoms Vs. UTI Symptoms: What’s The Difference?

Pregnant women often face a challenge in distinguishing between the symptoms of pregnancy and those of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Some pregnant women may not even display UTI symptoms.

The definitive way to diagnose a UTI during pregnancy is through a urine test strip or dipstick.

It's crucial to address UTIs in pregnancy promptly because complications, like kidney infections, can pose significant risks, including the potential for preterm labour. Therefore, timely diagnosis and treatment are essential to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.

You can seek assistance from Mobi Doctor for medical advice and consultations through their mobile healthcare services.