Did you know that UTIs are more common in girls than boys in the first year of life? This is because the female urethra is shorter than the male urethra, making it easier for bacteria to travel to the bladder.
My daughter was very prone to diaper rashes. We tried many things, like bamboo diapers, Superbottoms cloth diapers, and premium diapers. But ultimately this is what helped us. Also, she got a UTI at the age of just 11 months. So I will also share what are the symptoms of a UTI and how to prevent that.
As a new parent, you’re probably very attentive to your baby’s needs, watching for any signs of discomfort or illness. One condition that can be particularly concerning is a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs are not uncommon in infants, but they can be difficult to detect and treat. In this guide, we’ll explain the symptoms, causes, and prevention of UTIs in infants, as well as what to do if your baby develops one.
Symptoms of UTIs in Infants
Infants with UTIs may not show obvious signs of illness. In fact, many UTIs in infants are asymptomatic, meaning there are no visible symptoms. However, some babies may exhibit the following signs:
- Fever
- Irritability
- Poor feeding
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Foul-smelling urine
- Blood in the urine
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
Causes of UTIs in Infants
UTIs in infants are typically caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract, usually through the urethra. In infants, UTIs are more common in girls than boys, because the female urethra is shorter and closer to the anus, making it easier for bacteria to travel to the bladder.
Other risk factors for UTIs in infants include:
- Uncircumcised boys
- Premature birth
- History of UTIs in the family
- Structural abnormalities of the urinary tract
- Use of a urinary catheter
- Delayed or incomplete emptying of the bladder
Common types of bacteria that cause UTIs in infants include E. coli, Klebsiella, and Enterobacter.
Prevention of UTIs in Infants
There are several steps parents can take to reduce the risk of UTIs in their infants:
- Maintain good hygiene: Clean your baby’s genital area with warm water and mild soap, and wipe from front to back to avoid transferring bacteria from the anus to the urethra.
- Change diapers frequently: Wet and dirty diapers can create a moist environment that promotes the growth of bacteria. Change your baby’s diaper as soon as it’s wet or soiled.
- Encourage frequent urination: Make sure your baby empties their bladder regularly, especially after feedings or when waking up.
- Avoid tight clothing: Tight clothes or diapers can create friction and irritation, which can lead to UTIs.
Push doctor to prescribe for urine culture if this is the case. Some doctors might prescribe broad antibiotics but in my daughter’s case the UTI was antibiotic resistant to many antibiotics and only from urine culture could they find one which the UTI was sensitive to.
Treatment of UTIs in Infants
If your baby has a UTI, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. UTIs can cause serious complications if left untreated, such as kidney damage or sepsis.
Treatment for UTIs in infants typically involves a course of antibiotics, which can usually be administered at home. It’s important to follow the doctor’s instructions carefully and make sure your baby completes the full course of medication, even if they start to feel better.
UTIs in infants can be difficult to detect and treat, but with the right precautions and prompt medical attention, they can be managed effectively. If you suspect your baby has a UTI, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention. Your doctor can perform tests to confirm the diagnosis and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Remember to practice good hygiene, change diapers frequently, encourage frequent urination, and avoid tight clothing to reduce the risk of UTIs in your infant.
