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Certain risk factors have been identified on the basis of age, sexual activity and medical history:

Half of all women experience a UTI, and 1 in 10 have three or more a year

Reduced estrogen changes the urinary tract and makes it more vulnerable

Bacteria can enter the urethra during intercourse

Diaphragms and some spermidical agents may increase the risk

Recurrent UTIs are associated with pyelonephritis, veriscoureteral reflux and asymptomatic bacteriuria

Kidney stones (or an enlarged prostate) or any other urinary tract blockage can prevent the bladder from flushing out harmful bacteria

Diabetes and other conditions that may slow or stop the body from fighting infection increases risk

Using catheters to urinate – for instance, when hospitalized, paralyzed or dealing with neurological problems – may lead to UTIs

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