What causes a UTI?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) usually happens when bacteria—most often bacteria from the bowel—enter the urethra and travel upward into the bladder. Learning the common causes, risk factors, warning signs, and prevention steps can help protect urinary and kidney health.

The liver & kidney hope foundation provides education and support for people in Henderson, Nevada, and beyond. We are not a medical provider. If you have symptoms or questions about your health, talk with your healthcare provider.

Frequently asked questions

Find clear answers about UTI causes, prevention, and when a UTI may become a kidney health concern. Early attention matters—especially for people with kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, or a weakened immune system.

What is the most common cause of a UTI?

Most UTIs are caused by bacteria, commonly bacteria from the bowel, getting into the urethra and traveling into the bladder. This can irritate and infect the urinary tract.

Why are UTIs more common in women?

Women have a shorter urethra, so bacteria have a shorter distance to travel to reach the bladder. UTIs can affect anyone, however, including men, children, and older adults.

Can sexual activity cause a UTI?

Sexual activity can move bacteria closer to the urethra and raise the chance of a UTI. Urinating after sex and drinking water may help lower risk for some people.

Does holding urine increase UTI risk?

It can. Holding urine for long periods or not emptying the bladder fully may allow bacteria to remain and multiply. Try to use the bathroom when you feel the urge.

What health conditions can increase UTI risk?

Kidney stones or an enlarged prostate can block urine flow. Diabetes may increase risk because sugar in urine can feed bacteria. Menopause, urinary catheters, and a weakened immune system—including from cirrhosis or certain medications—can also raise risk.

Can an untreated UTI harm the kidneys?

Yes. A UTI can spread to the kidneys and cause a kidney infection. This may lead to sudden kidney injury, scarring from repeated infections, or sepsis, a serious bloodstream infection that needs urgent medical care.

Why do UTIs matter for people with liver disease?

For people with liver disease, an infection can contribute to confusion, kidney failure, or hepatorenal syndrome. Recognizing symptoms and getting timely medical care is an important way to help protect both liver and kidney health.

How can I help prevent a UTI?

Drink water throughout the day unless your healthcare provider has limited your fluids. Do not hold urine; go when you feel the urge and urinate after sex. After using the bathroom, wipe front to back.

When should I contact a healthcare provider?

Contact your healthcare provider if you have burning or pain with urination, frequent or urgent urination, lower abdominal discomfort, cloudy or bloody urine, or new urinary symptoms. Seek urgent care for fever, chills, nausea or vomiting, back or side pain, confusion, or if symptoms are severe—these can be signs of a kidney infection or another urgent problem.

The liver & kidney hope foundation is not a medical provider. A healthcare professional can diagnose and treat a suspected UTI; at-home test kits do not replace medical evaluation.

Protect your kidneys with timely information

If you have UTI symptoms now, contact your healthcare provider first. For more education on protecting kidney health, explore our Acute kidney injury guide and learn why prompt care for infections matters.