Frequent urination, as well as pain when passing urine, are 2 of the most common symptoms of a bladder infection. Bladder infections are very common in women, but rarely occur in men. The condition is characterized by intermittent spasms, which result in an urge to urinate. In addition, the urine often changes color, and has an odor. Bladder infection are usually harmless; but it important to treat it quickly so it will not cause a kidney infection which can be serious.
Then there is the problem where bladder infection returns time and time again. Recurrent bladder infection can be very annoying and problematic, and most general gynecologists are not sure why it persists.
What causes a bladder infection?
Bladder infections are usually caused by bacteria that reside in the opening of the vagina and the nearby anal opening. The good and bad bacteria usually live harmoniously in the vagina, but there are times when the bad bacteria dominate, causing an imbalance. When this happens, the delicate balance of the vagina is thrown off, increasing the propensity for bladder infections. The greater the dominance of the bad bacteria, the more frequent the symptoms of the infection can occur.
A bladder infection can also be caused by bacteria that enter the vagina via the anus, which lies close to the urethra. The bacteria travel to the urinary tract by way of the urethra, which is the tube that moves urine from the bladder.
Symptoms of a bladder infection
It is very likely that you have a bladder infection if:
- You have burning when urinating.
- You have frequency and urge to urinate.
- You have bladder spasms or pressure sensation.
- Urine is cloudy and has an odor.
Bladder infection- Treatment Options
In order to properly treat the underlying propensity for a recurrent bladder infection, a correct diagnosis must be done. At Fowler Gyn International (FGI) they are equipped with the necessary advanced diagnostic microscopic equipment and skills to identify underlying abnormalities..
They can perform a vaginal fluid analysis test or VFT, to determine if your bladder infection is the result of out-of-balance flora in the vagina. This involves a thorough analysis of the micro-flora sample with the use of advanced skills and microscopic equipment. During treatment, patients are monitored to access the speed and success of the healing process.
If the recurrent bladder infection condition is felt to be vaginal micro-flora related, then at FGI they use an approach known as vaginal rejuvenate therapy. This process is intended to restore the micro-flora back to normality, and has been very effective in providing relief for women with recurrent bladder infection.