Women are more likely than men to develop urinary tract infections, and that includes kidney infections. Understanding the symptoms and why women face a higher risk can help you catch a kidney infection early and get the right care.
Why Are Women More Prone to Kidney Infections?
Women have a shorter urethra than men, which makes it easier for bacteria to travel up into the bladder and, if untreated, into the kidneys. Pregnancy, certain birth control methods, and menopause related changes can also raise the risk of urinary tract infections that may progress to a kidney infection.
Common Kidney Infection Symptoms in Women
Watch for a combination of the following symptoms:
- Fever, chills, or feeling generally unwell
- Pain in the back or side, often on one side, below the ribs
- Pain or a burning feeling during urination
- A frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Cloudy, dark, or strong smelling urine
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pelvic pressure or discomfort
Symptoms can develop quickly, sometimes within a day of a bladder infection worsening.
Kidney Infection Symptoms During Pregnancy
Pregnant women are at higher risk of kidney infections due to changes in the urinary tract during pregnancy. Because untreated infections during pregnancy can affect both mother and baby, it is especially important for pregnant women to report fever, back pain, or urinary symptoms to their provider right away.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will typically ask about your symptoms, check for fever and tenderness, and test a urine sample to look for signs of infection. Additional tests may be used if infections keep coming back or symptoms are unclear.
When to Seek Medical Care
See a healthcare provider promptly if you have fever with back or side pain, or if urinary symptoms do not improve within a day or two. Early treatment often leads to a smoother recovery.
Seek emergency care immediately if you are pregnant and develop fever with back pain, or if you experience high fever, confusion, severe pain, or an inability to keep fluids down.
How Associated Nephrology Consultants Can Help
Our nephrology team understands the unique urinary and kidney health needs of women at every life stage. We offer compassionate, thorough care for patients throughout Maplewood and the greater Saint Paul, Minnesota area.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please talk with a qualified healthcare provider about your specific symptoms.
Associated Nephrology Consultants (ANC)
1997 Sloan Place, Suite 17, Maplewood, MN 55117
Phone: 651-772-6251
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Website:Â ancmn.com
