urinary and genital infections - UTI symptoms

Urinary and Genital Infections:

Urinary and genital infections are common yet often misunderstood conditions that affect both men and women. At Fakeeh University Hospital, we believe in empowering patients with accurate information and personalized care plans. This article explains what urinary and genital infections are, their possible causes, signs to watch out for, and the treatment options available through our expert medical team.

What Are Urinary and Genital Infections?

Urinary and genital infections refer to infections occurring in the urinary tract or genital organs. The urinary tract includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, while the genital system encompasses reproductive organs such as the penis, testes, prostate in men, and the vagina, uterus, and ovaries in women.

These infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and may affect different parts of the urinary or genital systems. Infections can range from mild to severe and should be diagnosed and treated promptly to avoid complications.

Common Causes of Urinary & Genital Infections

Infections may be bacterial or viral in nature:

Bacterial Infections: Occur when external bacteria enter the urinary or genital tract and multiply, leading to infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), prostatitis, or bacterial vaginosis.
Viral Infections: These include conditions like herpes simplex virus (HSV) or human papillomavirus (HPV), which can be transmitted sexually or through skin-to-skin contact.

Risk Factors for Urinary & Genital Infections

While the risk factors may vary by age and gender, some common risk factors include:

Unprotected sex with multiple partners
A history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Poor personal and genital hygiene
Incomplete emptying of the bladder
Weakened immune system

If you are at increased risk, it's essential to consult a urologist or gynecologist for preventive care and screening.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

While symptoms may differ based on the type of infection and the organ affected, some of the most common symptoms include:

Frequent urination or urgency
Burning sensation during urination
Foul-smelling or unusual genital discharge
Sores, bumps, or irritation in the genital or rectal area
Vaginal bleeding outside of menstruation
Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
Fever or chills
Pain during intercourse
Swollen lymph nodes

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical evaluation promptly.

Diagnosis at Fakeeh University Hospital

Diagnosis involves a comprehensive approach, starting with a detailed medical history and physical examination. Depending on your symptoms and gender, the following may be recommended:

Pelvic and genital exams
Urine analysis
Blood tests
Testing of vaginal or urethral secretions
Imaging (in select cases)

Our specialists at Fakeeh University Hospital use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to ensure accurate and timely detection of urinary and genital infections.