UTI

Hanson Clinic, PLC Our Services UTI

Hanson Clinic, PLC

Gynecologists & Obstetricians located in Edina, MN

On average, you probably urinate six or seven times a day, and if you have a urinary tract infection (UTI), that’s a lot of opportunities for a painful, burning sensation in your genitals. If you think you have a UTI, you can count on Dr. Marilee Hanson, MD, FACOG, for expert diagnosis and rapid treatment at her practice, Hanson Clinic, PLC in Minneapolis. When left untreated, UTIs can spread to your bladder and kidneys, so don’t delay treatment. Call or schedule an appointment online today.

UTI Q & A

What is a urinary tract infection?

A UTI is an infection in your urinary tract. They’re usually caused by bacteria, although viruses and fungi can also cause infections. UTIs cause painful and disruptive symptoms, including:

  • Pain and burning sensations when you urinate
  • Cloudy or bloody urine
  • Increased need to urinate without passing much liquid
  • Dark colored urine
  • Urine with a strong odor
  • Pain in your lower abdomen or back
  • Fever


UTIs are very common, especially in women, and are generally easily diagnosed and treated by a medical professional like Dr. Hanson. It’s important to get prompt medical attention as UTIs can spread up through your urinary tract and infect your bladder or kidneys.

What causes a UTI?

UTIs develop when bacteria enter your urethra and cause irritation and inflammation. They are more common in women than men because their anatomy makes it more likely for bacteria to reach the urethra. Some of the risk factors for UTIs include:

  • A history of UTIs
  • Sexual activity
  • Poor personal hygiene
  • Dehydration
  • Changes in your vaginal acidity or flora due to menopause
  • Pregnancy
  • Kidney stones


You may also have a structural abnormality that makes it easier for bacteria to enter your urethra and cause an infection.

How are UTIs diagnosed?

If you’re experiencing UTI symptoms, make an appointment at Hanson Clinic, PLC for diagnosis. Dr. Hanson diagnoses UTIs with an exam, a urinalysis, and a culture swab from your urethra. She collects the samples in-office and sends them to a medical lab that returns the results in about two to three days.

How are UTIs treated?

In most cases, Dr. Hanson treats UTIs with a prescription for antibiotics to fight off the bacterial infection. She may also prescribe medication to ease your pain and other symptoms. You should also increase your water consumption to help flush out the infection.

How can I prevent UTIs?

You can reduce your risk of UTIs with a few simple lifestyle habits. First, you should drink plenty of water, at least eight glasses a day.

You should also relieve yourself often. If you feel the urge to urinate, do so at your earliest convenience. Always wipe from front to back to avoid spreading bacteria from your anus to your urethra, and if you’re sexually active, make sure to urinate after intercourse.

If you think you might have a UTI, call Hanson Clinic, PLC in Minneapolis or schedule an appointment online today for diagnosis and treatment.

Featured

Services