A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. The most common cause of UTIs is E. coli bacteria, which live in the bowel. Other factors that may increase the risk of UTIs include:
Birth control: Spermicides can cause skin irritations that allow bacteria to invade, while diaphragms may slow urinary flow
Conditions or situations that block the flow of urine: These include tumors and kidney stones
Pregnancy
Physical changes during menopause: Such as thinning vaginal tissue