A urinary tract infection can affect any component of the urinary system, which encompasses the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. These infections tend to be more common in women than in men; nearly half of all women will experience at least one urinary tract infection during their lifetime.

Female urethrae are shorter than male, so harmful bacteria have a shorter distance to travel if it enters the body from the bowels. In uncomplicated cases, it is simple to treat a urinary tract infection with prescribed medication. Symptoms can help a doctor determine the severity of the infection.