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Talking to Your Doctor About Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Talking to Your Doctor About Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

You have your own health history. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and background with UTIs. By talking openly and often with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.

Tips for Getting Information

Here are some tips that will make it easier for you to talk to your doctor:

  • Bring someone with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask.
  • Write down your questions before you see the doctor so you do not forget them.
  • Write down the answers you get and make sure you understand what you are hearing. Ask for help if you need it.
  • Do not be afraid to ask your questions or ask where you can find more information. You have a right to know.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

About UTIs

  • Do my symptoms sound like a UTI?
  • How could I have gotten this infection?
  • Is there any chance that this is a more serious kidney infection?

About Your Risk of Getting UTIs

  • Do I have any risk factors for UTIs?
  • Do I have any health problems that caused me to get a UTI?
  • My child has a UTI. Is it due to any problems in the urinary system?

About Treatment Options

  • What kind of treatment is right for me?
  • Are there any self-care treatments that will help?
  • What can I do to ease pain?
  • How will I know if the infection is gone?

About Lifestyle Changes

  • How much water should I drink?
  • What can I do to prevent infections from having sex?

About Your Outlook

  • How will I know if the infection is getting worse?
  • I am pregnant. Will a UTI cause problems for the baby or me?
  • What can I do to lower my risk of another UTI?

References

  • Bladder infection (urinary tract infection—UTI) in adults. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/bladder-infection-uti-in-adults.
  • Getting the most out of your doctor appointment. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/tips-for-talking-to-your-doctor.
  • Introduction to urinary tract infections (UTIs). Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/genitourinary-disorders/urinary-tract-infections-utis/introduction-to-urinary-tract-infections-utis.
  • Uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI) (pyelonephritis and cystitis). EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/uncomplicated-urinary-tract-infection-uti-pyelonephritis-and-cystitis.
  • Urinary tract infections in adults. Urology Care Foundation website. Available at: https://www.urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/u/urinary-tract-infections-in-adults.

Contributors

  • James Cornell, MD
Last Updated:
2023-08-01

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.