UTI Treatment Specialist in Chicago, IL

Because of the way female anatomy is, women have an increased risk and chance of getting a urinary tract infection (UTI) at some point in their life. Most commonly UTIs are caused by bacteria present around the urethra that should not be in the area, and because of the shortness of the female urethra, there is a higher chance of these bacteria moving up and into the bladder. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can also be caused by other infections or fungi present in the area; however, this cause is not as common as it is caused by bacteria. There are also certain birth control methods that can increase the likelihood of getting a UTI and this includes the use of a diaphragm, spermicides, or unlubricated condoms. Since our bodies normally have healthy bacteria that live in certain areas, UTIs are commonly caused by bacteria from another region of the body being around the urethra. This can happen when bacteria from the anus has moved to the area, or if your sexual partner has not cleaned their genitals prior to intercourse.

When it comes to UTIs, because there are multiple things that can cause them in women, it is important to see a gynecologist when you believe you have developed one, or experiencing symptoms commonly associated with a UTI.

The big four things to avoid when you have a UTI are making sure that you do not drink alcohol, since alcohol is dehydrating, and the same with caffeinated beverages like coffee. The reason for this is because the bladder is affected by the UTI and not having not enough fluids present in the bladder can lead to worsening of the UTI. Patients should also avoid hot tubs or swimming with a UTI, as it is not a myth that you can get a UTI from these activities. The medical reason for this is because chlorine that is present in these waters can be irritating and irritate the urethra further, and sitting in a wet bathing suit for extended periods can lead to the growth of yeast. You should also avoid insertion of anything in the vagina, this includes the use of tampons during your menstrual cycle, and also avoid intercourse during your UTI as well. If for whatever reason you are unable to avoid sexual intercourse during your UTI it is recommended to make sure you use an unlubricated spermicide-free condom, as lubricants and spermicides can further irritate the urethra and delay the recover from your UTI.

Due to the anatomy of a woman, they are 30 times more likely to get a UTI than males, as the woman has a shorter urethra than men do.

There are also things that can increase the likelihood of a woman getting a UTI which include, but are not limited to, not drinking enough fluids daily, being sexually active, women who use diaphragms or spermicides, women who are pregnant or have been recently pregnant, women who have gone through menopause, women with diabetes and women who have recently had a catheter removed (a small tube that is placed in the urethra into the bladder).

The average cost for a UTI test is around $30, but this can vary based on where you go to have your UTI test done, since in an emergency care situation it can cost upwards of $2,000. If you are looking to have a UTI test done, seeing a gynecologist like Dr. Michelle Trandai, will be the best option for you, as you will receive care from a doctor who specializes in the female anatomy, and you will not have to pay the costs associated with care received at a hospital. The treatment itself will not be very expensive, as once it is determined you have a UTI caused by bacteria you will receive a prescription for antibiotics to treat the UTI, which can vary based on your insurance coverage, and the antibiotic you are given as the costs of the antibiotics can range from $12 for a generic antibiotic to $380 for a brand specific medication. If you are concerned about the cost of your antibiotic, you can discuss this with your gynecologist and they may be able to prescribe you a generic antibiotic instead. For more information, contact us. We serve patients from Chicago IL, Evanston IL, Ravenswood IL, Uptown IL, Lake View IL, Lincoln Park IL, Buena Park IL, Bowmanville IL, Boystown IL and Roscoe Village, IL.