Millions of men, women, and children experience urinary tract infections (UTIs) each year. Nearly half of all women will have at least one UTI during their lifetime, and approximately 1 in 10 men will also be affected. At Advanced Urology Centers of New York (AUCNY), our board-certified urologists treat thousands of patients annually for UTIs, providing expert care to prevent complications and recurrence.

Urinary Tract Infections

PAUL A PELLER, MD, FACS

A urinary tract infection occurs when normally sterile urine becomes contaminated by bacteria. The infection typically begins in the urethra and may spread upward into the bladder (cystitis) or even the kidneys (pyelonephritis). Children can also be affected, with infection rates of nearly 1 in 10 girls and 1 in 50 boys.

UTI symptoms vary depending on the severity and location of the infection and may include:

  • Persistent urge to urinate, often with burning during urination

  • Cloudy, strong-smelling, or blood-tinged urine

  • Pelvic pain in women

  • Urethritis (urethral infection): burning with urination, possible discharge

  • Cystitis (bladder infection): pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort, frequent urination, blood in urine

  • Pyelonephritis (kidney infection): back or flank pain, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing a UTI:

  • Female anatomy – shorter urethra and proximity to the bladder and anus; higher risk with sexual activity, insertional birth control methods, or post-menopause

  • Urinary tract abnormalities – kidney stones, enlarged prostate, or structural blockages

  • Weakened immune system – from diabetes or medications like steroids

  • Recent urinary surgery or catheter use – increasing infection risk

To confirm a UTI and determine the extent of infection, your AUCNY urologist may perform:

  • Detailed history and physical exam – reviewing symptoms, lifestyle, and health history

  • Urine analysis and culture – identifying bacteria and guiding antibiotic selection

  • Blood testing – to check if infection has spread to the bloodstream (sepsis)

  • Imaging (X-ray, CT, MRI, or ultrasound) – to evaluate for kidney stones or structural issues

  • Cystoscopy – using a thin camera to examine the urethra and bladder if recurrent infections occur

If diagnosed with a UTI, your AUCNY physician will create a personalized treatment plan, which may include:

  • Antibiotics – oral or intravenous, depending on the severity and spread of infection

  • Supportive therapies – increased hydration, urinary pain relief medications, or hospitalization in severe cases

  • Prevention strategies – for patients with recurrent infections, including lifestyle modifications or prophylactic antibiotics

Prompt treatment is essential to prevent complications such as recurrent infections, kidney damage, or systemic infection (sepsis).

Take Control of Your Urinary Health

A urinary tract infection can be painful and disruptive, but effective treatment is available. At AUCNY, our urologists provide expert diagnosis, advanced therapies, and preventive strategies to keep your urinary system healthy.

Schedule a consultation with an AUCNY urologist today for expert UTI care and long-term urinary health.

Take Control of Your Urinary Health

A urinary tract infection can be painful and disruptive, but effective treatment is available. At AUCNY, our urologists provide expert diagnosis, advanced therapies, and preventive strategies to keep your urinary system healthy.

Schedule a consultation with an AUCNY urologist today for expert UTI care and long-term urinary health.