Can a UTI Cause Discharge? Signs, Causes & When to Worry

Experiencing unusual discharge when you pee? This might make you think of a urinary tract infection (UTI), as this infection affects the urinary system, but the connection is not always simple. Most people wonder, “Can a UTI cause discharge?” The answer depends on many factors. Let’s dive into the blog to find the reasons. 

Can a UTI Cause Discharge?

Does a UTI lead to discharge? Urinary tract infection (UTI) typically does not cause vaginal or penile discharge itself. But if it is caused by bacteria entering the ureter, you may experience discharge as a symptom. The discharge basically may come from the vagina or urethra, depending on the location of the infection.

However, there are the following exceptions:

Urethritis vs. UTI:

• Bacteria, like E. coli, that cause UTIs can also affect the urethra and lead to urethritis (an inflammation of the urethra), which may also contribute to discharge. So, this causes confusion between the two conditions.

Secondary Infections:

• In some cases, individuals with UTI might also experience a co-existing infection, such as STI or bacterial vaginosis, causing discharge.

So, if you have a UTI-related discharge, it is more probably because of vaginitis (caused by bacterial vaginosis) or urethritis. Moreover, there can be other contributing factors for unusual discharge, like stress, hormonal imbalance, yeast infection, and even pregnancy. The best idea is to seek medical help for a proper diagnosis. 

What Does UTI-related Discharge Look Like?

The appearance of UTI discharge can vary based on color, odor, and consistency:

• Color: Cloudy or milky, white discharge, yellow or greenish, sticky discharge, particularly in children, or pink or reddish discharge.

• Odor: Foul or pungent and persistently fishy. 

• Consistency: Thick or foamy. 

Changes in the discharge are the primary indicator of UTI. Actually, a change in the color, consistency, and smell of urine is a more reliable way to identify this infection. Also, the following symptoms accompanying the discharge can help detect UTI:

Important Note: Not all urinary tract infections cause discharge. However, if you experience any symptoms, consult a doctor for effective diagnosis and treatment. 

How to Know if It’s UTI or Yeast Infection-Related Discharge?

Both UTIs and yeast infections can cause discharge; however, they can differ by the consistency and odor of discharge.

If you are not sure or have doubts regarding both types of infections, or if you are experiencing severe symptoms, seek medical help.

What Does UTI Discharge During Pregnancy Look Like?

The discharge during pregnancy basically looks similar to normal discharge, which is generally white and yellowish. Sometimes, women experience no discharge if they have a UTI during pregnancy. On the other hand, some experience excessive discharge than usual, as their body works overtime to prevent the infection. If during pregnancy, you notice discomfort or changes in the color and odor of discharge, speak to your gynecologist. 

Can You Get Mucus (Discharge) in Urine with a UTI?

Though mucus or discharge generally comes from the genitals, it is possible to have it in your urine in case you have a UTI. The urine may get cloudier than normal. Also, experiencing more discharge than usual can be due to the ovulation period (which is near) or sexual activity. However, in some cases, mucus in urine can be a sign of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as chlamydia, human papillomavirus (HPV), and gonorrhea.

If you have any concerns, the best idea is to seek professional help. 

Causes of Urinary Tract Infections

Understanding the causes can help prevent the infection and its related discharge:

• Bacterial entry: Bacteria such as E. coli move from the rectum to the urethra.

• Poor hygiene: Improper cleaning of genital area or wiping the vagina from back to front.

• Sexual activity: Sexual intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urethra and then the bladder.

• Urinary retention: Not emptying the bladder completely can lead to bacterial growth, causing a UTI.

• Weak immune system: Make it challenging for the boy to fight against infection.

• Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during menopause, can change vaginal flora, which can increase the infection risk.

• Blockages: Enlarged prostate gland or kidney stones can prevent the effective flow of urine, contributing to infection.

When to See a Doctor?

If you suspect the vaginal or penile discharge and any of the following symptoms of UTI, see a doctor:

The healthcare providers may help with urine tests and STI screenings to find out the actual cause. 

Treatment for Discharge and UTI

The treatment options for UTI-related discharge include:

Antibiotics

• This is the first-line treatment and examples include nitrofurantoin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, amoxicillin, cephalexin, and fosfomycin.

• The doctors prescribe these antibiotics for a short period, that is, for about 3 to 7 days.

• The type of antibiotic and treatment duration depend on factors such as the type of infection-causing bacteria, severity of infection, and other individual factors.

Pain Relievers

• The doctors can provide over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen.

• These medicines aid in relieving pain, fever, and symptoms associated with UTI and discharge.

OTC Antifungal Medications

• Treats yeast infections, which are also responsible for causing vaginal discharge and increase the risk of UTI.

• These medicines are available in creams, ointments, oral supplements, and suppositories.

Other Natural Remedies

• Hydration: Stay hydrated by drinking a lot of water to help the body flush the bacteria out of the urinary tract.

• Unsweetened cranberry juice: Research shows that cranberry juice can lower the UTI risk in females with recurrent infection, in individuals prone to UTIs after treatment, and in children.

• Heating pads: Putting a heating pad on the lower abdominal area can relive pain and tenderness related to UTI and vaginal discharge.

• Unsweetened yogurt: A study reports that unsweetened yogurt contains Lactobacillus acidophilus that can help prevent the risk of yeast infection. However, more research is needed for confirmation.

Note: Always seek medical advice before trying the home remedies to treat UTIs.

Prevention Strategies for UTI-related Discharge

Follow these preventive tips to prevent UTI, which can alleviate the risk of discharge:

• Wipe from vaginal area from front to back to prevent entry of bacteria to urethra. 

• Wash the genital area every day using water and unscented soap to keep it clean. 

• Avoid irritants, like feminine hygiene products, douches, vaginal sprays, and bubble baths, as they disrupt the balance of bacteria in genitals, thus, increasing the infection risk. 

• Change your sanitary pads frequently to lessen the bacterial growth, the other cause of infection.

• Drink a lot of water to flush out harmful bacteria. 

• Don’t hold the urine frequently, as it leads to the multiplication of infection-causing bacteria.

• Urinate after sex to get rid of bacteria that are introduced during sexual intercourse. 

• Limit intake of alcohol and caffeine, as they irritate the bladder. 

• Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes, as they create a moist space for bacteria to grow.

Note: If you experience UTIs again and again, see a doctor. The providers may help with low-dose antibiotics to prevent the recurrence of infection. They recommend this approach, as the body becomes less responsive to provided antibiotics and causes other infections. 

Final Thoughts

Can a UTI cause discharge? It does not itself lead to discharge, but similar infections, particularly STIs, can. If you experience any changes in color, odor, or consistency of discharge, see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Remember not to self-diagnose. Always consult a healthcare professional, as they can help with appropriate treatment depending on the correct cause of UTI and related discharge. 

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