Updated: Jan. 5, 2021
Originally Published: Feb. 13, 2018
Having given birth twice without any pain relief, I would never downplay the excruciating agony I endured during labor. However, I can confidently assert that I have experienced two other instances of pain that rival those labor pains. One of them might come as a surprise.
The first was the intense abdominal discomfort I faced due to IBS, which left me gasping, cursing, and writhing on the bathroom floor in unbearable agony. The other pain, which was also focused in my pelvic area, was equally horrific. Yes, I’m referring to the agony associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs), an experience that too many people underestimate.
Many of us view UTIs as mere annoyances characterized by an incessant urge to urinate. We might also be aware of the accompanying burning sensation. However, let me tell you: that burning can feel like a hellish fire has taken up residence in your urethra and is spreading through your entire pelvic region. It’s beyond painful.
I’ve suffered through two UTIs, and they have left a lasting impression on me. Now, whenever I feel any kind of burning or the familiar urge to urinate, I begin to panic, guzzling water like it’s my job and praying to the urethra goddess that I don’t have to endure that nightmare again.
My first encounter with a UTI occurred when I was in college. It started with an annoying feeling of needing to pee constantly. Yet, when I went to relieve myself, very little would come out, and that was accompanied by a deep burning sensation. Soon, the discomfort escalated into a pain that I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy.
After a visit to the university health center, I was tested for both a vaginal yeast infection and a UTI. Once they confirmed it was a UTI, I was advised to drink plenty of water, wipe from front to back (a practice I still adhere to), and consume cranberry juice like it was going out of style.
While following this advice did help, the nagging sensation of needing to pee persisted, even after the fiery pain subsided. Upon returning home for the holidays, my condition deteriorated rapidly. The pain returned, and I noticed blood each time I wiped. I also started feeling nauseous and weak. It was terrifying.
My mother took me to see a doctor, who scolded me for waiting too long to seek help, warning that my simple bladder infection was on the brink of turning into a serious kidney infection. I was prescribed antibiotics, which worked wonders in a way that cranberry juice simply could not. Thank goodness.
Determined to avoid that kind of suffering again, I delved into understanding UTIs. They are primarily caused by bacteria from the anal area or any other surfaces that come into contact with that region, entering the urethra and multiplying. As noted by The Mayo Clinic, women are more susceptible due to their shorter urethras, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.
Moreover, sexual activity is a significant contributor to UTIs. After some research (surprisingly, neither of the doctors I consulted mentioned this), I realized that the diaphragm my partner and I had started using was likely responsible for my infections. Those devices can harbor bacteria, and despite my best hygiene efforts, I only found relief once I stopped using it.
Other risk factors for UTIs include the use of spermicidal lubricants (yes, we were using those too), a weakened immune system, menopause, catheter usage, anatomical abnormalities, and simply having sex. Women truly have their challenges.
However, there are preventative measures you can take to reduce the risk of UTIs. I follow these diligently now and have not experienced another UTI since. Always stay hydrated (cranberry juice is an option, though its effectiveness is debated), maintain good hygiene, urinate after sexual intercourse, and wipe from front to back to keep bacteria at bay.
Sometimes, these self-care methods can alleviate mild infections, but it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional at the first sign of serious symptoms, as antibiotics might be necessary. You definitely want to address any issues before they escalate to the point of experiencing blood with urination or severe pelvic discomfort.
Trust me, you do not want to go through that ordeal.
This article was originally published on Feb. 13, 2018. If you’re looking for more information on related topics, check out this insightful article on home insemination kits. For authoritative insights, Make a Mom is a fantastic resource, as is CCRM IVF, which provides valuable information on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary:
UTIs are often underestimated, yet they can cause severe pain and discomfort. Understanding their causes and implementing preventative measures can help avoid future infections. If symptoms arise, seek medical attention promptly to prevent complications.