Burning when you pee? Feeling like you constantly need to go to the bathroom? You may have a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs are one of the most common bacterial infections in women, and most can be treated quickly with antibiotics. The good news: getting care is often simple, and treatment may even be available online. Here’s what to know about UTI symptoms, treatment, prevention, and when it may be time to talk to a provider.
A urinary tract infection (UTI) happens when bacteria enter the urinary tract and cause an infection.
Most UTIs affect:
Some infections can spread to the kidneys, which can become more serious if not treated quickly.
UTIs are especially common in women because bacteria can reach the bladder more easily.
UTI symptoms can appear suddenly and may include:
Some people also experience:
A UTI can sometimes spread to the kidneys.
Get medical care quickly if you have:
These may be signs of a kidney infection.
Most UTIs are caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract.
Common triggers may include:
Some people are also more prone to recurrent UTIs.
→ Read more: Recurrent UTIs: Why They Happen and What You Can Do
Not every burning sensation is a UTI.
Symptoms can sometimes overlap with:
If you also have:
…it may not be a UTI.
→ Read more: UTIs vs Yeast Infections: How To Tell the Difference
In many cases, yes.
Providers can often review your symptoms online and prescribe antibiotics when appropriate — without requiring an in-person visit.
Online treatment may help you:
Most UTIs are treated with antibiotics.
Many people start feeling better within 24–48 hours after starting treatment, though it’s important to finish the full prescription exactly as directed.
Some providers may also recommend:
Sometimes mild symptoms improve temporarily, but untreated UTIs can worsen or spread to the kidneys.
If symptoms continue, become painful, or keep returning, it’s important to talk to a provider.
Many people believe that cranberry juice can help prevent and treat UTIs. There is not enough evidence to suggest this, but there’s no harm in staying hydrated by drinking cranberry juice. More studies are being done to determine if cranberry juice is helpful in preventing recurring UTIs.
Many people feel better within 1–2 days after starting antibiotics.
Yes. Sexual activity can sometimes introduce bacteria into the urinary tract.
No. UTIs themselves are not contagious.
Dehydration may increase risk because bacteria are not flushed out of the urinary tract as effectively.
Some people are more prone to recurrent UTIs due to anatomy, hormones, sexual activity, or previous infections.
UTIs are extremely common, and most can be treated quickly when caught early.
Online care can make getting treatment faster and easier, with licensed providers reviewing your symptoms and helping you get the care you need without an in-person visit.
At Twentyeight Health, UTI care is included in Complete Care membership. Providers can review your symptoms online and, if appropriate, prescribe treatment with pharmacy pickup or discreet delivery available. Insurance and Medicaid are accepted in many states, with care as low as $0 with insurance.
Written by Twentyeight Health
Medically reviewed by licensed providers on the Twentyeight Health Clinical Team
Updated May 2026
