As per the WHO data, the estimated prevalence of primary infertility among reproductive age group women in India is around 11.8%. Various causes that lead to infertility in women are ‘damage in fallopian tubes or uterus’, ‘problems with ovulation and with the cervix’. But the majority of people are unaware that even recurrent Urinary Tract Infections has a direct relationship with the issue of infertility in women.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is a common problem among women which is stimulated due to the unwanted growth of bacteria (generally E. Coli) in one’s urinary system that includes the kidneys, urethra, and bladder. The issue of urinary tract infections affects both men and women but women are more vulnerable to UTIs as the female urinary tract is smaller inside and wider towards the outside as compared to men (female urethra measures only about 4 cm). So it’s easier for pathogens to gain access to the bladder from the outside. Therefore, women have to take extra care to prevent UTIs.

When the bacteria enters the urinary tract, it may arise in serious infection which is characterised by common symptoms such as fever, nausea, chills, discomfort and burning sensation while passing urine. And further may lead to lowered immunity, high blood sugar, phases such as menopause that causes dryness of the urinary tract, catheter use, blockages in the urinary tract, or urinary tract abnormalities.

Urinary Tract Infection and Infertility

As the urethra is located close to the vagina, the infection travels back and forth from the urethra when one is washing it along with the anal and vaginal tract. While the rare occurrence of UTIs is considered normal, recurrent UTIs in no way are normal. Recurring UTIs can affect one’s upper reproductive tract, that is, the fallopian tubes and the uterus in addition to the kidneys, and thereby increase the risk of infertility.

 UTI can further spread to the fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix and the whole pelvic area, thereby developing in pelvic inflammatory disease. This disease is characterised by swelling of these organs. Once these organs are swollen, it can lead to infertility. If this happens rarely, it will not have serious consequence infertility. However, if  UTIs are recurrent, it results in infertility.

Few advices to Control Urinary Tract Infection

Maintain an adequate personal hygiene – One must avoid using public washrooms in order to avoid infections, should wash the vaginal area properly with low-chemical products (preferably just clean, normal temperature water). Refrain from using products that cause irritation in the vagina such as sprays, douches or chemical powders. It is advisable to keep the vaginal area clean and wear underwear that is made of skin-friendly fabric like cotton.

Fluids are the best source – It is recommended to drink a lot of water to flush out those toxins from the body. This will also further benefit in getting rid of abdominal pain and bloating. You can also consider drinking cranberry juice that is said to be effective in dealing with UTI.

Frequent Urination – Do not hold urine for long time and use the washroom whenever there is an urge to go to pee. This will not only release the toxins from your body but will also eliminate the heaviness on the bladder. And will ultimately relieve one from the abdominal pain.

Go for medications – Take medications prescribed by the doctor and avoid skipping them in the case any of the above tips are ineffective in treating the urinary infection.