Sexual Wellness at Sameday Health — Announcing UTI Testing
Sexual health is a key part of every individual’s overall wellness. While the first thing that may come to mind when talking about sexual health are sexually transmitted infections, sexual health also encompasses the general health of your reproductive systems and organs.
One common infection that impacts most individuals are Urinary Tract infections, otherwise known as UTIs. Anyone is susceptible a UTI, whether it be dehydration, swimming in dirty water, using the wrong soaps, sexual activity, or even changes in bacteria in your body (CDC). While these are very common infections, it can be difficult to find UTI testing.
Fortunately, Sameday Health is now offering UTI testing, in addition to our convenient and discreet STI test offerings. You can make an appointment and get tested in the same day, so you can treat your UTI faster. So, what is a UTI and how can Sameday Health help you treat them?
What is a Urinary Tract Infection?
A Urinary Tract infection is a bacterial infection of the urinary system, including the urethra, urinary tract, bladder, or kidneys. Bacteria from the skin or rectum can enter the urethra and cause infection (CDC).
Millions of UTI infections occur each year, but some people are more at risk than others. Women are more likely to develop UTIs because their urethras are shorter, making it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract. Other things that increase your risk of developing a UTI are:
A previous UTI
Sexual activity
Changes in the bacteria that live inside the vagina, or vaginal flora. For example, menopause or the use of spermicides can cause these bacterial changes.
Pregnancy
Age (elderly adults and young children are more likely to get UTIs due to multiple health factors
Structural problems in the urinary tract, such as enlarged prostate
Poor hygiene, for example, in potty-training children (CDC).
Signs and Symptoms
How do you know if you have a UTI? Symptoms of a bladder infection can include:
Pain or burning while urinating
Frequent urination
Feeling the urge to urinate despite having an empty bladder
Bloody urine
Abnormal texture, odor, or color of urine
Pressure or cramping in the groin or lower abdomen (CDC)
Painful sexual intercourse
Prevention and Treatment
You can help prevent UTIs by doing the following:
Urinate immediately after sexual activity
Stay well hydrated
Take showers instead of baths
Minimize douching, sprays, or powders in the genital area
When potty training, teach wiping front to back (CDC)
Consuming 500 mg of cranberry dietary supplement daily (FDA).
Should you find yourself experiencing any symptoms, don’t panic. UTIs are very common and easily treated with antibiotics. At Sameday Health, you will be able to get tested for a UTI, as well as sexually transmitted infections, and then work with a licensed professional to get treated via a virtual care appointment.
