One of the most debilitating infections for women as well as some men, are bladder infections. These may also be called Urinary Tract Infections or UTI's. Some people end up experiencing several in a short period of time, while others may battle them on an ongoing basis. If you are wondering why you are dealing with this particular infection, there are numerous causes that may to be blame.

First, let's look at the most common bladder infection causes:

1. 90% of all bladder infections can be attributed to the bacteria commonly known as e-coli. When you eat meat infected with this bacteria, you can go through serious gastric distress. However, most humans already have this bacteria present in their digestive systems in trace amounts. The problem occurs when this bacteria is spread, usually through improper hygiene, to the urinary tract.

In addition to poor hygiene, e-coli can also infect the urinary tract through sexual intercourse. This is an extremely common issue for those who are sexually active and it is important to take steps to make sure that you prevent this type of transmission.

In women, once the bacteria enters the vaginal area, it spreads up through the urinary tract. Once it reaches the bladder, symptoms of a bladder infection usually start appearing. It can be quite painful and should never be left untreated. In order to prevent this common bladder infection cause, it is recommended that you take extra care with cleanliness during sexual intercourse. In addition, it also important to adopt good hygiene habits and avoid wiping back to front. This can drama>tically decrease the amount of bladder infections.

2. There are some physical conditions that are causes of bladder infections. For example, those who suffer from kidney stones are quite likely to have recurrent bladder infections. This is due to the blocking of the urethral tract by these stones. The tract becomes inflamed and bacteria can start the infection.

Other conditions that may predispose patients to a UTI include paralysis due to the fact that the bladder cannot empty fully. Women undergoing menopause often have a similar problem that leads to a UTI. Other physical causes of bladder infections include suppressed immune systems that can leave a patient vulnerable for contracting a bladder infection.

Diseases such as diabetes or AIDS are commonly associated with bladder infections. Those taking immunosuppressant medications may also be at risk for developing frequent bladder infections. With these particular causes of urinary tract infections, it can be difficult to prevent recurrence. Once again, proper hygiene is vital. In addition, patients can discuss their prevention options with their physician.

3. Genetic predispositions towards frequent bladder infections are currently being studied to determine whether there is a link. For those who have family members that frequently struggle with a bladder infection, there appears to be some sort of genetic link that is the cause of urinary tract infections. Some patients may just find that no matter how hard they try, they keep falling victim to these infections.

Gene therapy is being researched to determine whether there is a gene that can be isolated in these cases. Until they reach a breakthrough however, it is best for those who have a family history of frequent urinary tract infections to take preventative measures by adopting good hygienic practices. Some supplements may also be prescribed by a physician to assist with prevention of urinary tract infections.

4. Hospitalized patients may also experience frequent bladder infections as well as those who are bedridden or inactive. This is believed to be caused by catheters that can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract. In addition, catheters can also cause inflammation on their own and irritate the tract to the point where it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.

For those in this particular situation, it can be difficult for a doctor to pinpoint the exact cause for the urinary tract infection. These patients are commonly put on prescriptions and antibiotics to reduce their risk and provide relief during a painful episode.

More About What Causes Urinary Tract Infections and Prevention Methods

We've already covered numerous ways causes of urinary tract infection causes, but one particular area is important for women. By far, the most common cause of a bladder infection in women is sexual intercourse. Whether it is contamination from the e-coli bacteria, or other bacteria entirely, this is a very painful reality for millions of women that are sexually active.

If you have a genetic predisposition or if you simply find that you are experiencing a greater number of UTI's, it is a good idea to discuss your options with your health care professional. They can recommend specific medications that may lower your risk and help treat the causes of urinary tract infections.

One of the most common causes for a bladder infection in sexually active women is the use of a diaphragm as birth control. This little cap acts as a blocker for debris as well as bacteria that can migrate towards the urinary tract. Women who do use a diaphragm will need to take extra precautions to ensure that they maintain their health and avoid contamination as much as possible.

Another cause of urinary tract infections that is unfortunately growing in popularity is the bacteria called chlamydia trachomatis. If you are familiar with STD's, this is the bacteria that causes Chlamydia. A male may carry this bacteria without knowing it and can transmit it to a female partner during sex.

It is also important to note that there are many prevention methods that address the cause of urinary tract infections, as well as addressing the side effects. One of the most common remedies for women is the humble cranberry. Studies have shown that drinking cranberry juice helps not only treat an existing problem, but it can also help prevent further infections by balancing the PH of the urinary tract. When combined with good hygiene and safe practices, cranberries do a great job of addressing the numerous causes of bladder infections.