Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the second most common infectious disease: affecting more than 150 million people globally annually. Uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC), the predominant cause of UTI, can occur as a biofilm-associated with antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

​

HEALTH IMPLICATIONS

UTIs can affect different parts of the urinary tract, leading to:

• Urethritis: Inflammation of the urethra (burning sensation during urination)

• Cystitis: Inflammation of the bladder (frequent urination, urgency, pain in the lower abdomen)

• Pyelonephritis: Inflammation of the kidneys (fever, chills, nausea, flank pain)

The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the location of the infection. If left untreated, UTIs can lead to kidney complications.

​

PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS

UTIs can have a significant emotional impact on women's lives, causing:

• Discomfort and Pain: Burning urination, frequent urination, and pain in the lower abdomen can be disruptive and make daily activities uncomfortable.

• Anxiety and Stress: The fear of accidents due to frequent urination and the uncertainty of the infection's duration can be stressful.

• Embarrassment: Some women may feel embarrassed to discuss UTIs or experience symptoms like leaking urine, leading to social isolation.

• Disrupted Sleep: Frequent urination at night can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and impacting concentration.

• Impact on Intimacy: Discomfort and pain during urination can make sexual intercourse less enjoyable and lead to decreased libido.

​

FINANCIAL COSTS
Managing recurrent UTI involves repeated medical consultations, diagnostic tests, and treatments, resulting in cumulative healthcare expenses over time. Additionally, there may be indirect costs such as lost productivity due to symptoms or healthcare appointments.​