Urinary tract infections

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection that can develop if bacteria enters a baby or young child’s urinary tract, which runs from the kidneys, where urine is manufactured, through to the urethra, the tube that leads out if the bladder.

The bacteria can travel into your child’s urinary tract from her genitals or her bloodstream. Although boys can get them they’re more common in girls because the urethra is shorter and closer to the anus. Uncircumcised boys are also at a slightly higher risk of developing UTIs.

It can be difficult to diagnose a UTI in a baby, because often an unexplained fever is the only symptom. It’s unusual for other symptoms to be present but if they are they may include strong smelling urine, general crankiness, a poor appetite and vomiting. You may also see blood in her wet diaper. An older child will be better able to communicate that it hurts to pee or you may notice that she’s frequently getting the urge to pee but not actually passing any urine.

A tendency to UTIs can run in families so if you’ve had them before and you suspect your child has one contact your pediatrician, since an untreated UTI can damage the kidneys. She’ll take a sample of your child’s urine – not too difficult with an older child who can pee into a sterile container but way more difficult with a baby – it’s likely your pediatrician will use a catheter to ensure the sample is sterile, but don’t worry: it’s a quick procedure.

Treatment

UTIs are treated with antibiotics – always complete the course, since it’s important the infection is totally cleared or it could recur more severely. If your child is very sick, she may be admitted to hospital where antibiotics can be given intravenously. It’s possible further testing may be recommended, to rule out any blockage or check for a condition called vesicoureteral reflux, where urine travels back up the tube connecting the kidneys to the bladder. If your child is found to have the condition, a small operation may be necessary.

How can I help to prevent UTIs in my child?

Wash your hands before and after diaper changes and always clean your baby’s diaper area from front to back to avoid transferring bacteria from her rectum to her vaginal area. Encourage your older child to wash her hands frequently and always after going to the bathroom, and train her to wipe from front to back. Avoid using bubble baths or soaps that irritate the urethra, and make sure your child drinks plenty of fluids as this flushes out her urinary tract and can also help to prevent constipation, which increases the risk of UTIs. Studies show that breastfeeding for at least seven months can help to protect your child against UTIs.

The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.

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Last Modified: 20/06/2007

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