UTI Surprise: Urinary Tract Infections During Menopause

UTIs are Common during Perimenopause and Menopause

Today’s discussion on Urinary Tract Infections during Menopause is sponsored by URISTAT®. I have received free product and promotional consideration to inform you, as my readers, about this little known condition.

Source: URISTAT ® “Never on Pause” Education campaign

The incidence of UTIs during menopause

Surprise! Just more menopause fun! Not only does menopause bring physical changes and symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings and missed periods, but UTIs (Urinary Tract Infections) are quite common. In fact, as the pie chart above notes: more than half (53%) of women over 55 experience recurring UTIs (at least three UTIs over 12 months)

Why does menopause lead to increased UTIs?

Perimenopaure and Menopause is the time when ovaries naturally begin decreasing their production of sex hormones; “good bacteria” levels also drop. A lack of estrogen and good bacteria allows “bad bacteria” to grow more easily in the vagina or urethra. Therefore, women who have undergone menopause are at an increased risk for UTIs.

UGGGH! Can I avoid Urinary Tract Infections During Menopause?

Helpful tips to reduce the likelihood of getting a UTI:

Hydrate with water. This is will lead to frequent urination, which helps in keeping bacteria flushed out of your system
Always wipe front to back. This is an oldie but a goodie. You don’t want the bacteria from your anal region in your vagina and uretha. I know it’s a tad graphic but it’s a big NO to do back to front wiping.
Avoid products that irritate! My mother was a nurse and she always had me avoid products that irritate the urethra and trigger a UTI! For example, she told me to avoid vaginal deodorants, sprays, douches and powders. I also stay out of hot tubs and most pools, as the chemicals are a real irritant for me!
Had sex? Urinate immediately! No, it’s not super sexy to bound out of bed after a nice lovemaking session, but if you want to want to avoid UTIs, in my experience this is the very best way! I recommend urinating and then showering as soon after sex as you can.
Wear cotton underwear. Cotton underwear is porous and keeps your genitals dry. While you are at it you might want to ditch the thong too unless it gives you enough coverage. Avoid underwear made with synthetic materials.
Gotta go? GO! Don’t hold your urine. It’s not comfortable and holding urine makes it easier for bacteria to multiply in your urinary tract.

Get relief for UTIs

For a UTI, you need prescription antibiotics. While you are waiting for them to work, there is a pain reliever for when you begin to experience symptoms and think you have a UTI. URISTAT® Pain Relief Tablets deliver fast, temporary relief of pain for the burning and urgency and frequency of urination while you wait until you can see your doctor.

If you have ever had a UTI, you know the pain can virtually drive you nuts. From the makers of MONISTAT®, over-the-counter URISTAT ® Pain Relief Tablets contain phenazopyridine HCl, the #1 doctor recommended ingredient used to treat UTI pain or discomfort.