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Get it nowUrinary tract infections (UTIs) are no fun—in fact, they can be really painful. If you've ever had one, you know the discomfort all too well. But if this is your first UTI, or you're just curious, let’s break down what’s happening and why it can be so painful. Plus, we’ll dive into how to relieve that pesky pain while waiting for your treatment to kick in.
If you think you have a UTI, Hey Jane’s expert clinical care team can guide you through treatment from the comfort and convenience of your phone. To see if you’re eligible for care with Hey Jane, fill out this quick online form.
Are UTIs painful?
In short: Yes, UTIs can be quite painful. A UTI is a bacterial infection in any part of the urinary system. It develops when bacteria enter your urinary tract (bladder, ureters, urethra, and kidneys), leading to irritation and inflammation.
Common types of UTI pain
UTI pain can vary in intensity and feeling depending on how your body reacts and which part of the urinary tract is infected. For many, it feels like a dull ache or sharp, stabbing pain, especially in the lower abdomen. You might also experience a burning sensation when peeing or constant pressure, like you really need to go to the bathroom but can’t fully empty your bladder.
If the infection spreads to your kidneys, the pain may intensify and move up to your lower back or sides, known as flank pain. In these cases, it’s essential to head to the emergency room ASAP—especially if you also have fever, chills, or nausea—as these symptoms might indicate a more serious kidney infection.
Where is UTI pain felt?
UTI pain isn’t just limited to one spot. Here’s where you might feel it:
- Lower abdomen: Most common, with pressure or discomfort.
- Pelvic area: Particularly in people with uteruses.
- Lower back or sides (flank pain): If the infection has spread to your kidneys.
- When peeing: That burning sensation when you’re trying to urinate is a classic symptom.
If you’re feeling severe pain in your lower back or sides, especially with fever, chills, or nausea, it’s time to go to the ER. These symptoms suggest a kidney infection, which requires urgent care.
How long does UTI pain last?
Once you start antibiotics, UTI pain should ease within one to two days, but it may take up to a week for all symptoms to disappear. During this period, the pain might be pretty intense while you’re waiting for the medication to kick in. The good news? You can do a few things to manage the discomfort at home in the meantime.
UTI treatment from the comfort and convenience of your phone
Start nowHow to treat UTI pain at home
While a UTI itself needs to be treated with antibiotics, you don’t have to suffer through the pain without relief. Here are some ways to ease UTI pain at home while your treatment works its magic:
These tips may help manage the pain, but it’s important to remember that they won’t cure the infection. For that, you’ll need to consult a health care provider and start antibiotics—which is the best treatment in most cases.
Does UTI pain go away on its own?
In some instances, UTI pain may clear up without treatment, but we highly recommend that you visit a health care provider and get on antibiotics. The risks outweigh the benefits of leaving an UTI untreated, so be sure to get medical care as soon as you start experiencing pain and discomfort. With Hey Jane, you can consult with a provider in 1 day without having to go to an in-person appointment. Click here to get started.
When to seek medical help
If your UTI symptoms don’t improve after a few days of at-home treatment or if you experience severe pain, fever, chills, or nausea, it’s time to seek medical attention. These could be signs of a kidney infection or other complications that require urgent care.
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