Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Naturopathic UTI Treatment

Urinary tract infections, also called UTIs or bladder infections, are a familiar event for many women. UTIs can occur when bacteria migrates up the urethra into the bladder. If left untreated, bladder infections can turn into kidney infections.

UTIs can become more frequent in perimenopause and menopause due to hormone changes. The vulvovaginal tissue, urethra, and bladder are significantly affected by the decline in estrogen, making women more susceptible to bladder infections and bladder irritation.

Not only can menopause make you more susceptible to UTIs, but it can also cause symptoms similar to a bladder infection, including urinary frequency, urinary urgency, and pain with urination.

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a condition that affects the vulva, vagina, and lower urinary tract. These areas are highly sensitive to estrogen, as estrogen declines these areas become dry, thin, and irritated, making it easier for a bladder infection to develop.

If you are experiencing repeated UTIs or even more than feels normal for your body, you should schedule with Dr. Hamilton to prevent them from becoming worse or more frequent. There are many options to minimize the symptoms of GSM, recurrent UTIs, and painful bladder symptoms. These include bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and natural or non-hormonal solutions.

Dr. Hamilton offers in-person visits in Portland, OR and virtual visits for all Oregon and Washington residents.