Aurinary tract infection (UTI) blocks the proper flow of urine out of the body and can quickly escalate to a bladder, urethra or kidney infection with serious consequences. Women are more vulnerable to UTI than men. It’s estimated more than half of all women will develop a UTI in their life, and often more than once.

Common Causes of UTI:

• Weak bladder immunity
• Hormonal imbalance
• Poor hygiene
• STDs

Weak Bladder Immunity and Hormonal Imbalance

Suppression of the urethral or bladder immune system is the fundamental cause of UTI. Medications and birth control pills suppress prostaglandin E1 and E3 and nitric oxide, leading to abrasions along the urethral tract, vaginal canal and cervix. This triggers excess production of prostaglandin E2, which ignites UTI Excessive prostaglandin E2 can also be triggered by a hormonal imbalance, such as excessive progesterone or estrogen, or a lack of androstenedione, testosterone or DHT. Birth control pills, excessive sex or over-ejaculation can elevate epinephrine, cortisol and prostaglandin E2 and prolong UTI. Antibiotic treatments of chronic UTI can cause further problems by strengthening the resistance of the bacteria and damaging liver function.

UTI Can Lead To Bladder Infection

UTI happen when bacteria enters the urinary tract through the urethra and multiply in the bladder.  Inflammation of the lining of the bladder is called cystitis and occurs after sexual intercourse or from anal bacteria entering the urethra.

Symptoms of Cystitis:

• Pelvic pressure
• Lower abdomen discomfort
• Frequent & painful urination
• Strong-smelling urine

UTI Can Lead To Urethra Infection

Urethra infection (urethritis) in women is often caused by the same bacteria responsible for UTI or from a sexually transmitted disease (STD) such as chlamydia or herpes. Urethritis in men is also usually the result of bacteria acquired through sexual contact, most often chlamydia and gonorrhea. Symptoms of Urethra Inflammation:

• Burning with urination
• May cause penile discharge in men

UTI Can Lead To Kidney Infection

The urinary system is composed of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra.  The kidneys filter waste from the blood.  Ureters are tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra.  An infection of the kidneys may occur after spreading from an infection in the bladder. Symptoms of Kidney Infection:

• Upper back & flank pain
• High fever
• Shaking chills
• Nausea or vomiting

Prevention

It’s important for women to wipe from front to back after using the toilet to prevent bacteria from entering the vagina and causing infection. It’s also helpful for women to urinate after sex to help flush out bacteria that may otherwise migrate internally. A UTI can be a symptom of a larger issue such as an STD. Practicing safe sex and using condoms is an important part of prevention. Anal sex especially requires caution, even with a condom.

Natural Solutions

Cranberry’s antibacterial properties eliminate and prevent bacterial growth and are highly effective with early stage UTI. The concentrated levels of polyphenols and flavonoids in Cranberry Remedy with Hibiscus formula have been shown to reduce UTI by 77%. Ultra Cranberry Magic Remedy with hibiscus and sambubiosides is formulated to help with chronic UTI, and taking 5-HTP can increase serotonin and GABA production and stimulate the pineal gland to release melatonin for healing.