What causes Bladder Infection?
Often, bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) are to blame. They harmlessly live on the skin and in the bowel, and usually do not cause any trouble. Bacteria can get into the urinary tract through the urethra and cause an infection in many ways. They most often are:
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- Poor hygiene. Bacteria can easily migrate from the anus to the urethra.
- During sex. Bacteria may get into the bladder during sexual intercourse.
- Not drinking enough water. This means urine stays in the bladder for longer, becoming more concentrated, which makes it a perfect medium for bacteria growth.
- Pregnancy. During pregnancy, the growing uterus pushes the bladder, which stops the woman from emptying it completely. This way, bacteria are more likely to stay in the bladder and grow.
- Diabetes. Extra sugar that is contained in urine is an ideal “food” for bacteria in the bladder and urethra.
- Menopause. Women in their menopause tend to have more acidic urine due to low levels of estrogen, which makes them more prone to bladder infection.
- Prostatitis, a condition caused by an enlarged prostate. People with this condition have trouble urinating regularly, so their urine builds up in the bladder and bacteria start actively growing.
- Having a catheter in the urethra multiplies the chances of catching bacteria which causes bladder infection.
- Conditions that affect the structure of the urinary tract.
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