Getting more UTIs? It could be your hormones- check out the relationship between UTI and Hormones!

What No One Ever Tells You About UTI and Hormones

There is a strong connection between UTI and hormones. While UTIs are a common and often uncomfortable issue for many women, the role that hormones play in UTI development and treatment is often overlooked. In this article, we will explore how hormonal imbalance can contribute to UTIs, the impact of hormonal changes on UTI risk, the potential benefits of hormone therapy in UTI prevention, and other forms of natural and prescription treatment and support.

This post contains affiliate links but I only recommend products I use myself and with my patients.  Always discuss any supplements, medications, or products with your healthcare provider.

UTIs, or urinary tract infections, occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and cause infection. Symptoms such as frequent urination, a burning sensation, and cloudy urine are often associated with UTIs. However, what many people don’t realize is that hormonal regulation plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the urinary tract.

When hormonal balance is disrupted, particularly estrogen levels, the urinary tract becomes more susceptible to infections.

Hormonal milestones (such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause), hormone replacement therapy, and the use of certain contraceptives can all impact UTI risk due to their influence on hormone levels.

In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the specific connections between hormones and UTIs. We will discuss the effects of hormonal milestones on UTI risk, the impact of hormone replacement therapy and contraceptives on bladder health, and the role of hormonal imbalance in UTI development.

We will also explore the connection between perimenopause and recurrent UTIs, and the use of hormone therapy for UTI prevention and treatment.

By understanding the link between UTI and hormones, we can pave the way for more effective prevention and treatment strategies. So, let’s dive in and uncover what no one ever tells you about UTI and hormones.

Exploring the Connection Between UTI and Hormones

In this section, we will delve into the connection between UTI and hormones. Understanding the impact of hormonal milestones, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and contraceptives on bladder health and UTI risk is crucial for effective prevention and treatment.

The Hormonal Milestones and Increased Risk for UTIs

Different hormonal milestones, such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, can increase the risk of developing UTIs. During puberty, hormonal changes can affect the urinary tract, making it more susceptible to infections. Similarly, hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and menopause can create an environment that promotes UTI development.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and its Effects on UTIs

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is commonly used to alleviate menopausal symptoms by restoring hormone levels. However, it’s important to note that HRT can impact UTI risk.

Estrogen replacement therapy may help maintain the health of the urinary tract by improving tissue integrity and reducing inflammation, ultimately lowering the risk of UTIs.  Vaginal estrogen can help reduce vaginal dryness thereby reducing creating a better barrier of protection against invading bacteria.

Keep in mind that hormonal replacement therapy may not be right for everyone so discuss this with your provider before starting any HRT.

Contraceptives: How Birth Control May Impact Bladder Health

Using contraceptives can have varying effects on bladder health and UTI risk. Some forms of hormonal contraceptives, such as oral contraceptive pills (i/e “the pill”), hormonal patches, or intrauterine devices (IUDs), may disrupt the natural hormonal balance, potentially increasing the risk of UTIs.  They can do this by lowering estrogen levels.

On the other hand, non-hormonal contraceptives, like barrier methods, do not have the same impact on hormonal levels and may not affect bladder health in the same way.  These include condoms, which also can be helpful for maintaining a healthy vaginal pH (see more on this below).

Understanding Hormonal Imbalance and Its Role in UTI Development

In order to comprehend the connection between UTI development and hormones, it is vital to understand the role of hormonal imbalance. Hormonal imbalance can significantly impact the urinary tract, making it more susceptible to infections such as UTIs.

One key hormone that plays a crucial role in UTI development is estrogen. An imbalance in estrogen levels can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the urinary tract, compromising its ability to fight off infection. Estrogen is responsible for maintaining the health and elasticity of the urinary tract tissues, as well as promoting a healthy vaginal microbiome that helps prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria.

When estrogen levels decrease, as is common during menopause or certain stages of the menstrual cycle, the urinary tract becomes more vulnerable to infection. The decline in estrogen can lead to a thinning of the urethral lining, reducing its ability to act as a protective barrier against bacteria. This imbalance in estrogen levels can create an environment conducive to bacterial growth and UTI development.

It is crucial to highlight the importance of hormonal regulation in maintaining urinary tract health and preventing UTIs. Achieving hormonal balance through appropriate treatment and management can be key in reducing the risk of UTIs.

Perimenopause and UTI: Navigating Changing Hormone Levels

Perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause, is a time of significant hormonal changes in a woman’s body. These changes can have various effects, including an increased risk of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Understanding the impact of these changing hormone levels is helpful for managing UTIs during perimenopause.

How Low Estrogen Can Lead to Recurrent UTIs

During perimenopause, estrogen levels in the body begin to decline in the later phases. Estrogen plays a vital role in maintaining the health of the urinary tract and preventing UTIs. As we talked about above, in the low estrogen phases of life (like late perimenopause and menopause), the tissues in the urinary tract become thinner and more vulnerable to infection, which can lead to recurrent UTIs.

Ensuring Proper Diagnosis: UTI Testing and Hormone Assessments

Proper diagnosis is important in effectively managing UTIs during perimenopause. UTI testing is necessary to confirm the presence of an infection, rule out other causes of symptoms, and determine the most appropriate treatment.

Additionally, hormone assessments can help identify hormonal imbalances, including low estrogen levels, that contribute to recurrent UTIs. These assessments enable healthcare providers to develop personalized treatment plans to address both the UTI and hormonal factors. There are also at-home tests to give you an idea of where your hormones stand—check out this blog to learn more.

Luckily we also now have access to at-home test strips for UTIs in case you can’t get into your healthcare provider’s office immediately.   I like this brand because it tests not only for the presence of UTI but also for vaginal pH (keep reading to learn more).

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• AZO UTI TEST STRIP: AZO Test Strips offer you the most reliable, over-the-counter UTI home test available
• TRUST THE SAME TYPE OF UTI TESTS MANY DOCTORS USE: Two tests in one; our UTI test measures both Leukocytes and Nitrites, two common indicators of a UTI. It is also the same urinary tract infection test used in many doctor's offices
• ACCURATE RESULTS: AZO UTI Test Strips offers you reliable, over-the-counter UTI results at home you can rely on. Test results are ready to read in just two minutes
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If you get a positive result, or if your symptoms continue even with a negative result, please see your provider, as they can send a sample to have your urine cultured for specific bacteria and test those bacteria for sensitivity to medicine (urine culture and sensitivity test).

Vaginal pH Imbalance and Its Impact on UTI

Another factor to consider during perimenopause is vaginal pH imbalance. Estrogen helps maintain a healthy pH balance in the vagina, creating an environment that is unfavorable for the growth of harmful bacteria.

As estrogen levels decrease, the vaginal pH can become imbalanced, increasing the risk of UTIs. Balancing vaginal pH through appropriate interventions, such as topical treatments and lifestyle changes, can help prevent UTIs and maintain overall urinary tract health.

UTI Prevention and Treatment: The Power of Hormone Therapy

When it comes to UTI prevention and treatment, hormone therapy can play a significant role in maintaining urinary tract health and reducing the risk of infections. In this section, we will explore the various ways hormone therapy can be utilized to combat UTIs effectively.

Topical Estrogen and Its Preventative Role

One effective approach to UTI prevention is the use of topical estrogen (also known as vaginal estradiol or estriol).  As we discussed above, Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the urinary tract and vaginal flora.

During menopause or other periods of hormonal imbalance, the decline in estrogen levels can lead to a higher susceptibility to UTIs. By applying topical estrogen, the tissues of the urinary tract can be rejuvenated, helping to prevent infections and restore the natural balance of the vaginal microbiome.

But estrogen replacement therapy, even in the topical form, may not be right for every woman.  See our other blogs and videos on this, and always talk to your healthcare provider about your unique medical situation.

Alternative Approaches to UTI Treatment: D-Mannose and Probiotics

In addition to hormone therapy, alternative approaches to UTI treatment can also be beneficial. D-Mannose, a type of sugar naturally found in some fruits, has been shown to effectively prevent the adhesion of UTI-causing bacteria to the urinary tract walls. By inhibiting bacterial attachment, D-Mannose can help reduce the risk of UTIs.

This is my favorite easily accessible brand of d-mannose with cranactin that can be super helpful in naturally treating a UTI.

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SOLARAY D-Mannose with CranActin, 60 Vegetarian Capsules

• Solaray

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Another doctor brand I often use is this option by Pure Encapsulations.

Probiotics, on the other hand, are beneficial bacteria that can be taken orally or applied topically to restore the natural balance of the vaginal microbiome. This can help strengthen the body’s natural defenses against UTI-causing bacteria and promote overall urinary tract health.

The Lactobacillus reuteri, rhamnosus, and acidophilus strains are helpful for restoring a healthy vaginal pH and preventing UTIs.  These can be found in this supplement by Garden of Life which is one of my go-to supplements when my patients have bacterial vaginosis, recurrent UTIs, or imbalances in their vaginal microbiome.

Restoring a Healthy Vaginal pH

Vaginal pH imbalance, as discussed above, can contribute to the development of UTIs. The vaginal pH is naturally acidic, which helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.   And the hormonal changes or the use of certain products can disrupt the natural pH balance, making the urinary tract more susceptible to infections.

Restoring a healthy vaginal pH through appropriate hygiene practices, avoiding harsh products, and using pH-balanced feminine care products can help decrease the risk of UTIs. I recommend:

• Wearing 100% cotton underwear and breathable, not too tight clothing
• Using non-scented soap
• Avoiding douches or scented vaginal cleansing products
• Limiting sugar
• Trying a pH balancing product like rePhresh or Bonafide Clarivee
  

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By considering hormone therapy, if safe and indicated for you, alternative approaches like D-Mannose and probiotics, and restoring a healthy vaginal pH, women can take proactive steps in preventing UTIs and maintaining urinary tract health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the connection between UTIs and hormones is important for effective prevention and treatment. As we have seen, hormonal imbalances, such as low estrogen levels during perimenopause, can increase the risk of developing recurrent UTIs.

It is important to remember that everyone’s hormonal needs are unique, and seeking proper diagnosis and personalized advice from healthcare providers is essential. They can guide you in maintaining hormonal balance and provide recommendations for UTI prevention strategies tailored to your specific circumstances.

By taking proactive measures to prioritize hormonal balance and follow appropriate UTI prevention strategies, you can minimize the risk of developing UTIs and maintain optimal urinary tract health.

DrShelley

Dr. Shelley Meyer is a board-certified family physician and Institute of Functional Medicine-certified functional medicine physician, as well as a Registered Dietitian. She is passionate about helping women navigate the roller coaster of perimenopause and postmenopause.  She has her own Functional Medicine Practice in Denver, Colorado.