Urinary tract infections (commonly called UTIs) are one of the most frequent infections affecting women. From sudden urinary burning to feeling like you need to go “all the time,” UTIs can be uncomfortable, disruptive, and sometimes confusing. Many women wonder how to get rid of a UTI quickly, whether home remedies work, or if a UTI can go away on its own.
Jennifer Chapman, MMS, PA-C, a physician assistant at Tryon Medical Partners, sees UTIs regularly across a wide age range of patients. Understanding what a UTI is, why it happens, and how to treat it can help women recognize symptoms early and avoid complications.
What is a UTI?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract, most commonly the bladder, and multiply. While the body normally contains healthy bacteria, UTIs develop when less favorable bacteria grow in places they shouldn’t.
“A UTI happens when bacteria enter the bladder and continue to grow, causing an overgrowth,” PA-C Chapman says. “That bacterial imbalance is what leads to symptoms like burning, urgency, and pelvic discomfort.”
Most UTIs are bladder infections, though untreated infections can sometimes spread to the kidneys, becoming more serious.
Why do women get UTIs more often?
Women are more likely to develop UTIs because the urethra is shorter and located closer to the anus, making it easier for bacteria, most commonly E. coli, to enter the bladder.
“It’s not a hygiene issue,” Chapman emphasizes. “These areas are simply close together, and bacteria can become trapped and gain easy access to the urethra.”
Common risk factors include:
- Sexual activity
- Holding urine for long periods
- Poor hydration
- Postmenopausal changes
“After menopause, vaginal pH changes and tissue integrity can weaken,” PA-C Chapman explains. “That alters the natural bacterial environment and makes it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder.”
What are the most common UTI symptoms?
UTI symptoms can come on quickly and worsen if untreated. Common signs include:
- Burning or pain with urination
- Frequent urination or urgency
- Pelvic pressure or discomfort
- Feeling like you can’t fully empty your bladder
“These are usually the symptoms that bring patients in,” PA-C Chapman says. “If symptoms last more than a couple of days, it’s time to be evaluated.”
Can a UTI go away on its own?
One of the most common questions patients ask is whether a UTI can go away on its own.
“In very early cases, if someone increases hydration and flushes the bladder, they may be able to clear mild symptoms,” PA-C Chapman says. “But if it’s a true UTI, it’s typically going to get worse.”
If symptoms such as burning, pelvic pain, or urinary frequency persist for more than a day or two, antibiotics are usually necessary. Untreated UTIs can spread to the kidneys and cause more serious infections.
How to get rid of a UTI: treatment options
The most reliable way to get rid of a UTI is proper diagnosis and treatment.
“When someone has UTI symptoms, we start with a urinalysis,” PA-C Chapman explains. “We look for signs like bacteria, white blood cells, trace blood, or nitrates, which are by-products of bacterial growth.”
If needed, a urine culture may be sent to confirm the infection, and treatment typically involves antibiotics. Certain patients, such as those with diabetes, kidney disease, or weakened immune systems, may require closer monitoring or alternative treatment plans.
“We’re careful not to overprescribe antibiotics,” PA-C Chapman notes. “Repeated infections can lead to antibiotic resistance, which is why testing is important.”
Do home remedies for UTIs work?
Many women are curious about home remedies for UTIs, especially cranberry juice and over-the-counter supplements.
“Cranberry tablets may have some benefit in the prevention of UTIs” PA-C Chapman says. “But are not helpful in the treatment of an active infection.” Cranberry juice gets a lot of attention in the potential of helping, but it is misleading as it is not cranberry juice itself, but the proanthocyanidins that are in cranberries that helps in prevention. Cranberry juice with it’s sugar content could actually exacerbate an active infection.
Some OTC products can help relieve symptoms by neutralizing urine acidity, which may reduce burning. There are also supplements marketed for bladder health and UTI prevention.
“If patients are interested in supplements, I encourage them to bring them up with their primary care physician or advanced care clinician,” PA-C Chapman advises.
Are UTIs contagious?
A common misconception is that UTIs are contagious. While sexual activity can increase the risk of developing a UTI, the infection itself is not transmitted between partners.
“UTIs are not contagious,” PA-C Chapman says. “They can’t be passed through sex or any other form of contact.”
UTIs vs. yeast infections: how can you tell the difference?
UTIs and yeast infections can feel similar at first, but they have important differences.
“With a yeast infection, there’s an overgrowth of yeast rather than bacteria,” PA-C Chapman explains. “You’ll usually notice itching and a thicker, white vaginal discharge.”
UTIs typically do not cause vaginal discharge. Instead, symptoms are focused on urination and bladder discomfort.
“If symptoms overlap or it’s unclear, we can test for both,” PA-C Chapman says. “That way, we know exactly what we’re treating.”
When should you see a physician for a UTI?
If UTI symptoms last more than a couple of days, worsen, or include pelvic pain, burning, or frequent urination, it’s time to seek care. Prompt treatment helps prevent complications and speeds recovery.If you have recurrent UTIs or questions about prevention, the team at Tryon Medical Partners is here to help. Learn more through the Tryon Women’s Center specialty page or schedule an appointment to discuss personalized care options.
