Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common infections that affect the bladder, the kidneys and the tubes connected to them.
Anyone can get them, but they’re particularly common in women. Some women experience them regularly (called recurrent UTIs).
UTIs can be painful and uncomfortable, but usually pass within a few days and can be treated with antibiotics.
This page is about UTIs in adults. There is a separate page about UTIs in children.
Complete our self-help guide to check your symptoms and find out what to do next.
Infections of the bladder (cystitis) or urethra (tube that carries urine out of the body) are known as lower UTIs. These can cause:
You can speak to your pharmacist for advice and treatment on lower UTIs.
Lower UTIs are common and aren’t usually a cause for major concern.
Infections of the kidneys or ureters (tubes connecting the kidneys to the bladder) are known as upper UTIs. These can cause the same symptoms as lower UTIs and also:
Upper UTIs can be serious if left untreated, as they could damage the kidneys or spread to the bloodstream.
You think you, your child or someone you care for may have a urinary tract infection (UTI) and:
If your GP is closed, phone 111.
These symptoms could mean you have a kidney infection, which can be serious if it’s not treated as it could cause sepsis.
Your GP team can:
UTIs are normally treated with a short term course of antibiotics.
Most women are given a 3-day course of antibiotic capsules or tablets. Men, pregnant women and people with more serious symptoms may need a slightly longer course.
Your symptoms will normally pass within 3 to 5 days of starting treatment. Make sure you complete the whole course of antibiotics that you’ve been prescribed, even if you’re feeling better.
Over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol can help with any pain. Drinking plenty of fluids may also help you feel better.
Return to your GP if your symptoms don’t improve, get worse, or come back after treatment.
UTIs occur when the urinary tract becomes infected, usually by bacteria. In most cases, bacteria from the gut enter the urinary tract through the urethra.
This may happen when wiping your bottom or having sex. But often it’s not clear why it happens.
The following may increase your risk of getting a UTI:
Women may be more likely to get UTIs because their urethra is shorter than a man’s and is closer to their anus (back passage).
There are some things you can do to try to prevent UTIs.
Speak to your GP if these measures don’t work.
Drinking cranberry juice or using probiotics aren’t proven to reduce your chances of getting UTIs.
Last updated:
13 February 2023