Could undercooked meat be behind your UTI?

You may blame your urinary tract infection (UTI) on holding in your urine too long, but there may be a different reason why it developed. According to a new study from an American Society for Microbiology journal, one in five UTIs is linked to eating meat contaminated with E. coli.

How does contaminated meat cause UTIs?  

Most bladder infections are caused by bacteria getting into your urinary tract. This can happen when you hold your pee too long, don’t pee after having sex or when fecal matter ends up near your urethra. 

The study found that about 18% of UTIs could also come from foodborne E. coli, such as undercooked chicken or turkey. After settling in your intestines, the bacteria can move from your anus to your urethra. This often happens by accident after using the bathroom.  

This is the largest study to date that confirms contaminated meat’s role in UTIs.  

“E. Coli is a common cause of UTIs, but I think the research is still evolving about the role contaminated meat plays in UTIs,” says Dr. Fahad Chaus, a urologist at Advocate Health Care. “It’s always a good idea to make sure you’re cooking food properly and avoiding cross-contamination.” 

How to prevent UTIs

Preventing UTIs is often about simple, everyday habits. For example, wiping from front to back after using the bathroom and keeping the genital area clean.  

“When you feel the urge to go, just go,” says Dr. Jennette Berry, a family medicine physician at Advocate Health Care. “The longer you hold in the urine, the more likely it can turn into an infection.”  

Both peeing after sex and drinking plenty of water can also help prevent an infection since they help flush bacteria out of your urinary tract.  

And as the latest study suggests, cooking food thoroughly is also essential to avoid contaminated E. coli. Make sure poultry reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and beef or pork reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit before you eat it.  

Why do women get more UTIs?

Women should be especially diligent about following these habits since they face a much higher risk of getting a UTI. This is due to a shorter urethra and loss of estrogen during menopause. 

“Most UTIs occur in women,” Dr. Chaus explains. “After menopause, the vaginal tissue doesn’t make as much acidic fluid, and that makes it easier to get an infection.” 

What treatment is available for UTIs?

Once you are diagnosed with a UTI, your health care provider will likely prescribe a short course of an antibiotic to help resolve symptoms.

Bladder concerns are just one of many conditions that a virtual primary care provider can treat. Learn more: IL | WI