Reframing Your Physical Symptoms
Even with the possible solutions mentioned above, the changes in your reproductive and urinary organs at menopause can be frustrating. Sometimes, rather than a physical solution to these challenges, a shift in mindset might be the answer. If a person cannot change a situation in their life, sometimes they can change their emotional response to the situation. This is where reframing can help.
Cognitive reframing is a tool in which a situation does not change, but your reaction to the situation or your perspective on the situation does change. With menopausal symptoms, this may include looking not at the negatives of your situation, but the positives instead. Rather than focusing on your vaginal dryness and how it affects your sex life, perhaps focus on how you are free to have sex whenever you wish without the thought of birth control. If the cost of vaginal lubricants disturbs you, consider how much money you are saving on pads and tampons. There is also a freedom that comes with no longer needing to make sure you have these menstrual products on hand.
Reframing is not always easy to do, and sometimes you may need to “fake it until you make it.” Remember there are silver linings in nearly any situation.
Trying to create a sense of gratitude can also be helpful. Many people have found that keeping a gratitude journal is a good way to shift their frame of mind from the negative to the positive. Try to think of three positives in your life every day.
What Causes Urinary Tract Infection
The vast majority of urinary tract infections are caused by the bacteria Escherichia coli , which is usually found in the digestive system. However, other pathogens may cause a UTI. These include:
- Klebsiella pneumonia
- Enterococcus faecalis
- Staphylococcus saprophyticus
The bacteria may infect any part of the urinary tract bladder, urethra or kidneys. Depending on where the infection occurs, the UTIs are often known as:
- Cystitis infection of the bladder
- Urethritis infection of the urethra
- Pyelonephritis infection of the kidneys
The infection in urethra and bladder is usually not very serious and clears up with treatment. Similarly, ureters very rarely get infected. However, if a UTI reaches the kidneys, it may lead to kidney infections and a person may have to go to the hospital for treatment.
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Will Probiotics Help Prevent Utis
While it might seem like taking oral probiotics chock-full of Lactobacilli would be the best answer, De Nisco isnt optimistic. Oral probiotics are unlikely to colonize the urinary tract because they must survive and establish themselves within the gastrointestinal tract first, she says. Probiotic suppositories might be a more efficient route to the urinary tract, but more research is needed, she says.
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Classification Of Urinary Tract Infections
UTIs are classified into 6 categories. The first category is an uncomplicated infection this is when the urinary tract is normal, both structurally and physiologically, and there is no associated disorder that impairs the host defense mechanisms. The second category is an complicated infection this is when infection occurs within an abnormal urinary tract, such as when there is ureteric obstruction, renal calculi, or vesicoureteric reflux. The third category, an isolated infection, is when it is the first episode of UTI, or the episodes are 6 months apart. Isolated infections affect 2540% of young females. The fourth category, an unresolved infection, is when therapy fails because of bacterial resistance or due to infection by two different bacteria with equally limited susceptibilities. The fifth category, reinfection, occurs where there has been no growth after a treated infection, but then the same organism regrows two weeks after therapy, or when a different microorganism grows during any period of time., This accounts for 95% of RUTIs in women. Bacterial persistence happens when therapy is impaired by the accumulation of bacteria in a location that cannot be reached by antibiotics, such as infected stones, urethral diverticula and infected paraurethral glands. The sixth category, relapse, is when the same microorganism causes a UTI within two weeks of therapy however, it is usually difficult to distinguish a reinfection from a relapse.
Cranberry Juice And Utis
Medical opinion is divided about cranberry juices effectiveness in treating or preventing UTIs and studies have shown mixed results. As there is no clear evidence, dont waste your money on cranberry products as they are not recommended at present. Although, if you enjoy them as part of your normal diet, they are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C.
Avoid taking these products if you are prone to kidney stones and if you are taking warfarin .
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When Are You Postmenopausal
Menopause is diagnosed after the fact, once you have gone a full year without a single period, Dr. Pinkerton says. Before that, you might skip a cycle or have periods spread out farther than usual. During this phase, you are in perimenopause, not menopause.
During perimenopause, the amount of estrogen in your body fluctuates wildly. Once you are menopausal, though, this hormone drops to a very low level and stays there, .
How Do Probiotics Work In The Urinary Microbiome
Research has shown that Lactobacillus probiotic strain works in three different ways in your urinary system. One way is by producing lactic acid in the microbiome that helps fight and kill infection-causing bacteria and viral pathogens. Another way is the formation of protective epithelial colonies in the urinary tract lining that prevents any bacteria from settling and colonizing. The last way is by stimulating the immune response to kill any foreign microbe in the body .
You should keep in mind that chronic UTI should only be treated by using properly prescribed medicines by your doctor. Dont start supplements without prior knowledge of your condition and expect relief from chronic infections. Probiotics are good for preventing recurrent UTI and keeping you safe in the long term.
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Risk Factor Of Treating Utis Without Antibiotics
Some research has found that about 25 to 40 percent of uncomplicated UTIs may wither away on their own. In other words, the bacteria from E.coli may flush out from the urinary tract without any medications. However, this usually happens in women with no other health issues, which can complicate things.
But, one may have some serious risks due to leaving a UTI untreated. The person can have pyelonephritis and sepsis, which is why it becomes very important for the patient to consult with the doctor and seek treatment for betterment if any suspicious symptoms arrive.
However, there is some risk factor that can make the infection more complicated
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bacteria species are already resistant
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to conditions that affect the immune system and can have HIV, cardiac disease, or, at worst, cause lupus
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changes in the urinary tract or organs can help in swollen prostate or reduce the urine flow.
Solutions For Chronic Utis
Antibiotics do an excellent job of clearing UTIs. But like most women, you probably dont relish the idea of taking antibiotics frequently. And rather than just treat UTIs, youd rather avoid getting them in the first place.
If youre getting chronic menopause-related UTIs, the following solutions could help:
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What Can You Do About Recurring Utis
If you keep getting a UTI during menopause or at any other time in your life, its important to see your doctor so they can check if there is any underlying cause for your repeated infections, and whether there is anything they can do to help prevent it. While this can be an uncomfortable topic to discuss with your doctors, these issues are extremely common. Proper treatment should help you to enjoy your sex life once more, without the worry that you will end up with another UTI.
Bladder Health For Older Adults
Everyone uses their bladder many times each day, but they may not know what to do to keep their bladder healthy.
Located in the lower abdomen, the bladder is a hollow organ, much like a balloon, that stores urine. It is part of the urinary system, which also includes the kidneys, ureters, and urethra. Urine contains wastes and extra fluid left over after the body takes what it needs from what we eat and drink.
As you get older, the bladder changes. The elastic bladder tissue may toughen and become less stretchy. A less stretchy bladder cannot hold as much urine as before and might make you go to the bathroom more often. The bladder wall and pelvic floor muscles may weaken, making it harder to empty the bladder fully and causing urine to leak.
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Help For All Your Menopause Symptoms
At Womens Healthcare of Princeton, we understand how hard it can be to cope with menopause-related symptoms. Thats why we offer a full range of treatment options, including complementary and alternative therapies as well as traditional medical options.
If you live in or around Princeton, New Jersey, and are tired of dealing with menopause symptoms such as chronic UTIs, call us for an appointment or book your visit online today.
What Is A Urinary Tract Infection
A urinary tract infection is an infection that affects any part of the urinary tract, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra.
Your kidneys, bladder, and urethra are responsible for removing excess waste and water from your blood. Your urinary system also helps regulate blood pressure. It can be affected by blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and electrolytes. That is why urinary tract infections, known as UTIs, must be taken seriously.
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What Kind Of Weight Gain Should I Expect With Gestational Diabetes
A urinary tract infection targets any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. The bladder and urethra are the more commonly infected components of the urinary tract. Women have greater chances than men of having a urinary tract infection. Bladder infection can be both painful and uneasy. If a UTI spreads to kidneys it usually causes significant issues. Antibiotics are usually used to handle urinary tract infections. Symptoms of Lower urinary tract infection include pain while passing urine, frequent urination, and the need to urinate even while having an empty bladder. The symptoms of an upper UTI, when the kidney is involved, can be fever and flank pain. Urine may sometimes seem bloody. Symptoms in the elderly and the very young can be absent or non-specific.
Escherichia coli bacteria are the most common cause of the urinary tract infection, other bacteria or fungus can also result in infection. Anatomy of the women, sexuality, diabetes, obesity, and family history are all the risk factors for urinary tract infection. Sexual activity is a risk factor, but urinary tract infections are not considered as sexually transmitted infections. Kidney infection mostly follows a bladder infection however it can also result on its own.
Here Are 6 Best Home Remedies For Urinary Tract Infections :
1. Drinks lots of water
Drinking water is one of the most basic home remedies for UTI. Your bodys status of hydration is an important marker of your risk of urinary tract infections. Multiple studies have linked low fluid intake with increased risk of recurrent UTIs. One of the best ways to get rid of this disorder is to flush out the bacteria from the body and drinking lots of water is primary to that goal. When you drink more water, you urinate more often and that in turn reduces your risk of developing UTIs.
2. Eat more citrus fruits
Citrus fruits are considered to be a part of the extra-health benefits group of fruits. This is due to the high vitamin C content of these fruits. Vitamin C boosts overall immunity of the body and that protects you from urinary tract infections. Vitamin C increases the acid levels in your urine thereby killing harmful bacteria. Regular consumption of citrus fruits is strongly linked to a lower risk of UTIs.
3. Include more probiotics in your diet
4. Apple cider vinegar
One of the best home remedies for UTIs is apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is enriched with antibacterial properties. Drinking it with some luke warm water on an empty stomach every morning can be quite helpful in killing UTI-related bacteria. It kills the bacteria in your urinary system to free you from the bacteria the healthy way.
5. Ginger tea
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What Are The Other Urinary Symptoms Of Menopause
The states that throughout menopause, the lining of the urethra becomes thinner. This can lead to urinary incontinence.
The North American Menopause Society explains that there are two main types of urinary incontinence. These are:
- Stress incontinence: This is when the bladder leaks when a person laughs or sneezes. It often starts during perimenopause but does not usually get any worse as the person progresses through the transition.
- Urge incontinence: This is a sudden and urgent need to urinate, also known as overactive bladder. The muscles may not be able to stop the flow of urine completely, causing leakage.
Treatments are available, and various exercises designed to strengthen the pelvic floor for example, Kegel exercises can help. Doctors may also prescribe medications or surgical treatments.
Sometimes, home remedies and increased water consumption can flush bacteria out of the bladder before an infection takes hold.
However, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases says that anyone experiencing nausea or vomiting, fever, or severe pain in the back alongside bladder-related symptoms should seek medical advice. This combination of symptoms can be a sign of a kidney infection.
The UCF adds that anyone with blood in their urine should see a doctor as soon as possible. Although this can be a sign of a UTI, it is also a marker for other urinary tract problems.
What Does Having Lower Oestrogen Mean
First of all, lower quantities of oestrogen are associated with a number of anatomical changes1:
- The urethra becomes shorter
- The lining of the urethra becomes thinner
- The muscle that controls urine leaving the bladder becomes less efficient
- The bladder becomes less capable of holding large amounts of urine
These changes interfere in different ways with the passing of urine through the urinary tract and out of your body, therefore increasing the chance of infection occurring.
They also increase the risk of continence problems, as well as pelvic organ prolapse , which in turn also increase the risk of UTI.6
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Newer Concepts In The Prevention And Treatment Of Utis
The oral immunostimulant, OM-89, is an extract of 18 different serotypes of heat killed uropathogenic E. coli, which stimulates innate immunity by increasing neutrophils and macrophage phagocytosis. OM-89 shows promise in the prevention of recurrent UTIs .
A similar concept is provided by the vaginal vaccine, Urovac: it contains 10 heat killed uropathogenic bacteria including 6 different serotypes of UPEC, and 1 strain each of Proteus vulgaris, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Morganella morganii and
What Conditions Are Related To Recurrent Utis
Recurrent UTIs sometimes happen along with other conditions, such as:
- vesicoureteral reflux , which is found in 30%50% of kids diagnosed with a UTI. In this congenital condition, pee flows backward from the bladder to the ureters. Ureters are thin, tube-like structures that carry pee from the kidney to the bladder. Sometimes the pee backs up to the kidneys. If its infected with bacteria, it can lead to pyelonephritis.
- hydronephrosis, which is an enlargement of one or both kidneys due to backup or blockage of urine flow. Its usually caused by severe VUR or a blocked ureter. Some kids with hydronephrosis might need to take daily low doses of antibiotics to prevent UTIs until the condition producing hydronephrosis gets better or is fixed through surgery.
But not all cases of recurrent UTIs can be traced back to these body structure-related problems. For example, dysfunctional voiding when a child doesnt relax the muscles properly while peeing is a common cause of UTIs. Not peeing often enough also can also increase a childs risk for recurrent infections. Both dysfunctional voiding and infrequent urination can be associated with constipation.
Rarely, unrelated conditions that harm the bodys natural defenses, such as diseases of the immune system, also can lead to recurrent UTIs. Use of a nonsterile urinary catheter can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract and also cause an infection.
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How To Prevent Uti After Menopause
Getting a UTI can be a pain for women of any age, but women post-menopause are especially at risk of developing a urinary tract infection.
The prevalence of lower UTI in women increases with age, and up to 15% of women over the age of 60 will develop recurring UTIs.1
Many older women believe that urinary symptoms such as needing to go to the toilet a lot, or continence issues, are just a normal sign of aging.1 Also, scientific research into womens health issues is lacking, and there is still a lot we dont know about the causes and mechanisms of certain illnesses. Healthcare providers often dont have answers when it comes to chronic conditions, leave their female patients in the dark, and show a lack of empathy and understanding. For these reasons, it is understandable why you might put off a visit to the doctor about urinary symptoms.2
But these symptoms could be a sign of UTI, and UTI shouldnt be ignored, so it is important that you get appropriate care and the treatment that you need.