UTI symptoms in women: how to recognise one and when to get help

What is a UTI?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection anywhere in your urinary system: your bladder (cystitis), urethra or kidneys. Most are bladder infections caused by bacteria that normally live in the bowel getting into the urethra.

Women get UTIs much more often than men because the urethra is shorter and closer to the bottom. They're more likely after sex, during pregnancy, after menopause, and if you have diabetes or problems emptying your bladder.

Common UTI symptoms

• Pain, burning or stinging when you pee
• Needing to pee suddenly or more often than usual
• Feeling like you still need to go right after peeing
• Cloudy, dark or strong-smelling urine
• Blood in your urine
• Pain or pressure low in your tummy
• Feeling generally unwell, tired or achy

In older women, a UTI may show up as new confusion, agitation or being unusually unwell, sometimes without the typical symptoms.

Signs of a kidney infection — get help urgently

A bladder infection can sometimes spread to the kidneys, which needs prompt treatment. Get urgent medical advice the same day if you have UTI symptoms along with:

• a high temperature, or feeling hot and shivery
• pain in your lower back or side, under the ribs
• feeling or being sick
• feeling very unwell, confused or drowsy

Call emergency services or go to an emergency department if you have a very high or very low temperature, are confused, very breathless, or not peeing at all, as these can be signs of sepsis.

When to see a doctor or pharmacist

Mild bladder infections sometimes clear on their own within a few days, but you should get advice if:

• your symptoms are severe or getting worse
• they haven't improved after a couple of days
• you're pregnant
• you get UTIs often
• your symptoms come back soon after treatment
• you have blood in your urine
• you have diabetes or a weakened immune system

In some places, including parts of the UK, pharmacists can assess and treat uncomplicated UTIs in women, so it's worth checking what's available locally. A doctor may test your urine and, if needed, prescribe antibiotics. Always finish the course as directed.

Could it be something else?

Some other conditions can feel like a UTI, including sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia, thrush, and vaginal dryness after menopause. If you have unusual discharge, itching, sores, or symptoms that keep returning despite treatment, tell your doctor so they can look into other causes. If there's any chance of an STI, a sexual health clinic can help confidentially.

What helps and how to prevent UTIs

While you're recovering:

• drink enough fluids so you're peeing regularly
• rest and use simple pain relief if suitable for you
• avoid sex until you feel better

To lower your chances of getting another one:

• Wipe from front to back after using the toilet
• Pee soon after sex
• Don't hold in your pee for long periods
• Stay hydrated
• Avoid perfumed soaps, douches and bubble baths around the genitals
• Wear breathable underwear like cotton

If you get UTIs often, a doctor can talk through other prevention options. If you're past menopause, ask whether vaginal oestrogen might help.