Etiology UTIs are the result of an infection of the urinary tract, which can be viral, such as herpes, or bacterial, such as gonorrhea. Risk factors The following are risk factors for UTIs: sex without condoms; having multiple partners; and poor hygiene. Signs and Symptoms Symptoms of UTIs are less likely to be detected in women than men. These symptoms include: burning sensation during urination (difficulty urinating); urethral discharge; hematuria; and frequent urination. Diagnosis In order to make a definitive diagnosis of UTI, the doctor will do a number of things: ask for a sexual history; do the appropriate physical examination; take a urine specimen for testing; and collect a sample for testing with a cotton swab in the urethra. Treatment Depending on the cause, timely treatment of UTIs is important. UTIs that are not effectively treated can cause infections of the reproductive organs and even lead to infertility. UTIs caused by bacteria can be treated with antibiotics, and all sexual partners of the patient must be treated accordingly. Family care instructions Sexual intercourse is forbidden until the diagnosis is clear and cured, even if the symptoms have disappeared before the cure is determined. The full course of medication should be administered according to the treatment plan established by the doctor. Seek medical attention when you have: fever of 38.8 degrees or higher; severe abdominal pain or back pain, etc.; recurrent vomiting.