Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment - Cleveland Clinic

Tier 1: Established: peer-reviewed research or government health authority
Publisher: Cleveland Clinic · Published: August 10, 2026 · Accessed: August 10, 2026

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Claims this source supports

• A UTI is an infection in any part of the urinary system; most involve the lower tract (bladder and urethra) and are caused by bacteria.
• Women get UTIs much more often than men because the female urethra is shorter and closer to the anus, giving bacteria a shorter path to the bladder.
• The best thing to do for a UTI is to see a healthcare provider; antibiotics are needed to treat an infection, and the full course should be finished even if symptoms improve.
• People who get frequent UTIs may be offered daily or post-sex low-dose antibiotics as prevention - a decision to make with a provider.
• Symptoms that suggest the infection has moved beyond the bladder (such as fever, back pain, or nausea) warrant prompt care.