Knowing the difference between a complicated vs an uncomplicated UTI can be... complicated. But with Pharmacy First, pharmacists can assess and provide you with advice and treatment at your earliest convenience. 

What is an uncomplicated UTI? 

Simply, an uncomplicated urinary tract infection is when bacterium creates an infection in the lower urinary tract, including the bladder and urethra. However, when this infection spreads to the kidneys, this is when a UTI is deemed complicated due to many severe health challenges this can create. 

Therefore, it is important to recognise what a UTI is and feels like to enable quick intervention and the prevention of a complicated infection. So, below are the following symptoms that can help you spot a UTI early on: 

• Needing to pee more than usual (this also includes during the night)  
• Pain or a burning sensation when peeing  
• Smelly or cloudy pee 
• A high temperature 
• An extremely low temperature (below 36C) 
• Pain in your back, lower tummy or underneath your ribs 
• Blood in your pee 
• Needing to suddenly pee 

However, in children these symptoms may differ as they can experience wetting the bed (or themselves), being sick or feeling unwell. 

Who does it affect? 

Anyone can face a UTI but a key difference between those who experience a complicated vs an uncomplicated UTI is the age and circumstances of those who are infected. For example, those who are classified as experiencing an uncomplicated urinary tract infection are:  

• Women who are not pregnant 
• People without a urinary catheter  
• Those who do not regularly experience UTIs 

Why do I get an uncomplicated UTI? 

There are many factors as to what can bring about a UTI yet, this is caused by poo bacteria entering the urinary tract. This comes through the urethra, which is a small tube that carries pee out of the body.  

As women have a shorter urethra than men, they are more likely to experience a UTI and for the infection to reach their bladder and kidneys. Therefore, below are additional risks to be aware of that can increase the likelihood of a UTI:  

• Having sex 
• Pregnancy  
• Having a weakened immune system 
• Not drinking enough liquids 
• Not keeping the genital area clean and dry 
• Urinary catheters  
• Health conditions that block the urinary tract – like kidney stones  
• Health conditions that hinder the bladder from emptying – like enlarged prostate (in men) and constipation (in children)  

When does an uncomplicated UTI go? 

When it comes to treating an uncomplicated UTI, adhering to the following at-home remedies can help quicken recovery: 

• Taking paracetamol up to four times a day (this will reduce pain and a high temperature) 
• Resting and drinking enough fluids (this is to aid in passing pale urine regularly that day)  
• Avoid having sex 

Although there is no evidence to suggest cranberry drinks and products can prevent the occurrence of UTIs, other proving methods to deter a UTI include:  

• Peeing straight away after sex 
• Drinking plenty of fluids – especially water 
• Keeping the genital area clean and dry  
• Wiping from front to back when you use the toilet 
• Washing the skin around the vagina with water before and after sex 
• Changing nappies or disposing soiled incontinence pads  

How does Pharmacy First help? 

Women between the age of 16-64 years can visit their local pharmacy for advice and treatment from a pharmacist. At the pharmacy, the pharmacist will ask questions related to your situation and point you to the right direction for treatment. This can include self-care, pain relief or a referral to a GP, sexual health clinic and other providers best matched to your infection. 

Breaking the ice, can be awkward and scary but having a professional and confidential conversation with a pharmacist, like ours, is the best service you can begin with for advice and treatment for your uncomplicated urinary tract infection. 

Where do I go for help? 

Wherever you are, whether it be at home or the park, you can easily find your nearest Allied Pharmacy on our website by typing in your postcode. Once you have entered in your location, our map will zoom in and show our nearest pharmacy to you. There is no need to worry about booking an appointment or giving us a heads up before your visit, as with Pharmacy First, our pharmacists will be ready to assist you.