From the Guidelines
Constipation resulting in dysfunctional voiding increases the risk of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI) due to incomplete bladder emptying, weakened pelvic floor muscles, and bacterial translocation from the rectum to the urinary tract. The relationship between constipation, dysfunctional voiding, and UTI risk is complex and multifaceted. Key factors include:
- Incomplete bladder emptying due to physical compression of the bladder and urethra by accumulated stool in the rectum, creating a breeding ground for bacteria 1.
- Weakened pelvic floor muscles from straining during constipation, further compromising normal urination patterns and causing reflux of urine back into the bladder 1.
- Bacterial translocation from the rectum to the urinary tract, facilitated by the proximity of these systems and constipation 1.
- Altered bathroom habits, such as rushing urination or developing holding patterns, which prevent complete emptying and increase UTI risk 1.
To address this connection, treatment should focus on resolving constipation through increased fluid intake, dietary fiber, regular toileting schedules, and sometimes stool softeners or laxatives as recommended by a healthcare provider 1. Maintaining good bowel habits helps restore normal bladder function and reduces UTI risk by eliminating the mechanical and physiological factors that promote bacterial growth in the urinary tract.
Some studies suggest that managing constipation can lead to significant improvements in urinary symptoms, including a reduction in UTI incidence 1. For instance, a study found that treatment of constipation resulted in 89% resolution of daytime wetting, 63% resolution of nighttime wetting, and prevention of urinary tract infection 1.
Overall, prioritizing bowel health through dietary adjustments, regular toileting, and appropriate medical intervention when necessary is crucial for preventing UTIs in individuals with constipation-related dysfunctional voiding.
From the Research
Constipation and Dysfunctional Voiding
- Constipation can lead to dysfunctional voiding, which is characterized by the inappropriate constriction of the sphincter and pelvic floor during voiding 2.
- Dysfunctional voiding can cause a range of symptoms, including urinary frequency, urgency, and incontinence, as well as more severe complications such as chronic kidney disease and poor quality of life if left untreated 2.
Increased Risk of UTI
- Dysfunctional voiding can increase the risk of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI) due to the incomplete emptying of the bladder, which can lead to bacterial growth and infection 3, 4.
- The incomplete emptying of the bladder can also lead to urinary stasis, which can increase the risk of UTI 5.
- Constipation can exacerbate dysfunctional voiding, further increasing the risk of UTI 6.
Mechanisms of UTI Development
- The mechanism of UTI development in individuals with constipation and dysfunctional voiding is complex and multifactorial 3, 5.
- It is thought that the combination of incomplete bladder emptying, urinary stasis, and bacterial growth can lead to the development of UTI in these individuals 4.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between constipation, dysfunctional voiding, and UTI development 2, 3, 5, 6, 4.