Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Symptoms of a UTI can vary depending on whether the infection is in the bladder, urethra, or kidneys.

Typical symptoms include:

• a frequent and urgent need to urinate

• passing only small amounts of urine

• a burning, or stinging sensation when urinating

• cloudy, strong-smelling, or blood-stained urine

• lower abdominal or pelvic pain

• feeling generally unwell or tired

If the infection has spread to the kidneys, symptoms may also include:

• fever or chills

• pain in the sides or back

• nausea or vomiting

UTIs are usually caused by bacteria from the digestive tract entering the urinary tract and multiplying. Some people are more likely to develop UTIs than others, and they may also recur. 

Risk factors for UTIs include:

• being female – the shorter urethra in females makes infection more likely

• sexual activity

• menopause

• using certain types of contraception, such as diaphragms

• pregnancy

• urinary catheters

• blockages in the urinary tract, such as kidney stones

• conditions like diabetes, which weaken the immune system

At your initial consultation, your urologist will talk to you about your symptoms and medical history, and may also carry out a physical examination. 

Further tests may include: 

• urinalysis – a sample of urine is analysed for bacteria, white blood cells, or other signs of infection

• urine culture – to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and determine which antibiotics will be effective

• imaging – imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scans may be used to check for structural abnormalities or kidney involvement in more complicated cases

Not all UTIs can be prevented, but there are steps you can take to lower your risk:

• drink plenty of fluids to flush bacteria from the urinary tract

• urinate as soon as you feel the need 

• wipe from front to back after using the toilet

• empty your bladder soon after sex

• avoid perfumed soaps, sprays, or powders around the genital area

• wear cotton underwear, and avoid tight clothing

Most UTIs clear up quickly with treatment, but complications can occur if infections are frequent, untreated, or spread to the kidneys. Rarely, this can cause permanent kidney damage or sepsis (a serious infection of the bloodstream).

If you have repeated UTIs, it’s important to see a urologist to rule out any underlying causes.

Treatment options will depend on the severity of your infection and whether you keep getting UTIs. Your urologist will discuss the options available and tailor the treatment plan specifically for you. 

 Options include:

• oral antibiotics – the main treatment for bacterial UTIs

• pain relief – paracetamol or ibuprofen can ease discomfort

• hydration – drinking plenty of fluids helps flush out bacteria

• intravenous antibiotics and fluids may be needed for severe infections

If you have recurrent UTIs, your consultant may recommend further investigations to check for structural or functional problems with the urinary tract.

At Welbeck, we offer a comprehensive UTI treatment package, designed for those experiencing recurrent infections, ensuring thorough investigation and expert guidance. 

Our self-pay pricing starts from £948 and includes:

• consultation with a specialist – discuss your symptoms, medical history, and treatment options with an experienced consultant

• follow-up consultation (recommended within 7 to 10 days) – review your test results and receive a tailored treatment plan

• urinary tract PVR scan (kidney, urethra, and bladder) – a detailed ultrasound to assess the urinary tract, with results sent to your referring doctor within 24 hours

• urine dipstick test – a rapid test to check for signs of infection, with immediate results at our centre

• urine culture test – a laboratory analysis to identify any bacterial infection, with results available in 2 to 4 working days

• chaperone service – a trained chaperone is available on-site for your comfort and reassurance

At Welbeck, our urologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.

Get in touch today to book an appointment.