What are the Different Types of Urinary Tract Infections?

UTI or Urinary Tract Infections, as the name suggests are infections of the urinary system. Our urinary system is composed of three essential elements: bladder, ureters, and urethra. Bladder is the organ that collects and stores urine; ureters are the tubes that connect kidneys to the bladder; and urethra is the tube that passes urine out of the body. Though urinary tract infections are quite common, they should not be overlooked.

Some of the common symptoms of UTIs include burning pain during urination, blood or pus in urine, difficulty in controlling while urination, and the feeling of urination every time, to name only but a few. However, it should be noted that these symptoms might not be associated with UTIs. Only a doctor can diagnose these symptoms.

UTI can be caused by several reasons; for example, if bacteria come in contact with the vulva can cause UTI. The main source of bacteria is feces that might enter when toilet water back splashes. Besides, anal intercourse is one of the reasons of UTI. STDs can also cause UTI. If a woman is not sure how she got infected with UTI, there is nothing to worry. Visit a doctor and get the right diagnosis and treatment for the same. Treatment for UTI is available; doctors recommend antibiotics and over-the-counter pain relievers.

Women can prevent UTI infections by practicing some good habits; for example, drink lots of water when thirsty, do not hold urination, urinate immediately before and after intercourse, and keep vulva clean and dry. 

Birth Control through Abstinence

The word abstinence is used in many different ways when it comes to birth control. Some people consider abstinence as total absence of vaginal coition; however, they may enjoy other forms of sexual activities. This situation is effectively described as outercourse. Some people follow periodic abstinence when a woman is more likely to get pregnant. So, abstinence is one of the most effective birth control methods in which sperm is kept out of the vagina.

As far as effectiveness is concerned, it is 100 percent effective; and the other benefit is that it prevents individuals from STD infections. So, it is the safest ways to prevent unwanted pregnancy, as there is no side effect. People choose abstinence for many purposes such as to prevent pregnancy; wait to find the right partner, get over a breakup, and to prevent STDs, besides others. However, staying abstinent is not as easy as it seems. It requires a lot of patience, and will power.


A hairy communist bolts.

Breastfeeding and Birth Control

Breastfeeding starts just after a woman gives birth to a baby. Baby feeds on her mother’s breast milk. This brings many hormonal changes in a woman’s body and thus helps prevent unwanted pregnancy. During breastfeeding, some hormones are not released inside the body, which are necessary for ovulation (release of a mature egg from the Graffian follicle to the fallopian tube where the egg meets a sperm and fertilization takes place). 

Now the question is how effective is breastfeeding in preventing birth control? It has been found that less than 1 out of 100 women get pregnant who practice continuous breastfeeding. However, this method is effective for about 6 months from the date of delivery. In addition, it is also important to note that breastfeeding does not protect individuals from sexually transmitted diseases.

Many women after delivery start breastfeeding to their babies. If a woman finds it difficult to breastfeed then she can take the help of a doctor, or a nurse. The main advantage of using breastfeeding as a birth control method is that it is safe; and it has no side effect. 

What is an IUD?

The IUD stands for Intrauterine Device. It is a small T-shaped device, which is made of flexible plastic material. A doctor inserts IUD into a woman’s uterus to prevent unwanted pregnancy. The IUD device prevents sperm to meet with an egg. If there is no fertilization, there will not be any conception.

IUDs are very effective in preventing unwanted pregnancy. However, it is important to note that IUDs cannot prevent a person from STD (Sexually Transmitted Disease) infections. So, if a person is having multiple partners then other methods need to be used to prevent STDs.

Soon after an IUD is placed inside the uterus, she can indulge in any sexual activity. Once a woman gets her IUD, she needs to consult with a doctor after her first period. This checkup is important to ensure that the IUD is placed properly. IUDs can be replaced or removed anytime; the procedure is very simple. Visit a hospital and the health care provider will remove or change IUD. However, women should never try removing IUDs of their own.

What is Spermicide?

Spermicide is one of the birth control methods for women. Spermicide, as the name suggests, contains chemicals that prevent sperm from moving. It is available in different forms including gel, film, creams, and suppositories.

Effectiveness of Spermicide

Effectiveness is one of the most common concerns while choosing a birth control method. However, like other methods, if used correctly, spermicide is very effective. However, if women use this method regularly then there is a chance of 15 out of 100 women to get pregnant each year.

How to Use Spermicide Correctly?

Since there are different forms of spermicides available, each form is used differently. Before using the spermicide, it is always advised to read the instructions carefully. If not used as directed, it will not be effective. Inserting spermicide is quite easy – simply lie down and insert the spermicide deep into the vagina using fingers. In some forms such as creams, and gels, one needs to wait for about 10 minutes after inserting spermicide to have intercourse.

How Safe is Spermicide?

In general, it is quite safe, but many women are allergic to spermicide and can get skin irritations. If any skin irritation is felt inside the vagina or the penis, change the brand or consult a doctor. 

What is Vasectomy?

Vasectomy is one of the birth control methods in men; however, this method is considered as permanent. The doctor closes or blocks the tubes that carry sperms. After vasectomy, sperms are not ejaculated with the semen.

How does Vasectomy work?

Sperms are formed in the testes. During coition, sperms are carried through two tubes called vasa differentia and mixed with seminal fluids to form semen. In case of vasectomy, each vasa deferens is blocked to prevent sperm out of the seminal fluid.

Effectiveness of vasectomy

Well, vasectomy is considered as 100 percent effective. However, it is advised to use condoms for about 2 months after vasectomy. After that there is no need of using any condom. As far as safety is concerned, vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure; however, it is important to consult a health care professional for the same. After vasectomy, most men return to their work. However, in few cases, it takes 1-2 days to recover from the same. Men after vasectomy can begin their sexual activity within a week. 

Birth Control Options

Birth control options are not one-size-fits all kind of thing. One specific method that is perfect for one woman might not be suitable for others. It is therefore, important to pick the right birth control method. However, you are the only one who can decide what is best for you. But, it is sometimes not so easy to figure out the right option. Well, you can use my tips to figure out the right method.

All you need to do is sit and think for a few minutes about your present lifestyle plus your likes and dislikes. You do not need to worry at all because there are no correct or incorrect answers. These questions have been designed for women, if you are a man, you will have to answer these questions from the perspective of your partner. Once you answer all the questions, you will be able to pick the right birth control method. Answer the following questions in Yes or No.

Q1. Do you want protection from sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV?

Q2. Are you allergic to latex?

Q3. Do you have any allergic problem with spermicides?

Q5. Would your partner be comfortable using a condom?

Q6. Would your partner pull out just before ejaculation?

Q7. Would you be able to take pills every day?

Q8. Are you afraid of needles?

Q9. Are you planning to get pregnant the very next year?

Q10. Are you 35 or above and smoke cigarettes?

Depending upon your answer, you can choose whether you need condoms, birth control ring, or birth control pills.