Break Free from Recurring UTIs in Women with UPNT’s Advanced Care

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women are far too common — but they don’t have to take over your life. At Urology Partners of North Texas (UPNT), we bring together expertise, compassion, and the latest diagnostic technology like Pathnostics’ Guidance® UTI test to uncover the root cause of your UTI and help you heal faster.

Serving women across Arlington, Mansfield, Grand Prairie, Irving, and the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, UPNT is committed to accurate diagnosis, targeted treatment, and empowering you to enjoy life without the constant worry of recurring infections.

Understanding UTIs in Women

What Causes UTIs in Women?

UTIs occur when bacteria—most often Escherichia coli (E. coli)—enter the urinary tract, leading to infection. Factors like sexual activity, menopause, urinary retention, and even genetics can raise the risk of developing a UTI.

Women are especially susceptible because of their anatomy: the urethra is shorter, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.

Common Symptoms of a UTI

If you’ve had a UTI before, you probably recognize the telltale signs:

A strong, persistent urge to urinate
A burning sensation during urination
Passing small amounts of urine frequently
Cloudy, bloody, or strong-smelling urine
Pelvic pain, especially around the pubic bone

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more serious kidney infections, so prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

Why Are Women More Prone to UTIs?

The female urinary anatomy makes it easier for bacteria to travel to the bladder. Hormonal changes during menopause, pregnancy, and certain types of contraception (like diaphragms or spermicides) can further increase UTI risk.

Additionally, women who experience incomplete bladder emptying due to pelvic floor issues or nerve dysfunction are at higher risk for recurrent infections.

Advanced Molecular Testing for Accurate UTI Diagnosis

At UPNT, we utilize Pathnostics’ Guidance® UTI test, which combines multiplex polymerase chain reaction (M-PCR) and Pooled Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing (P-AST™). This advanced diagnostic approach offers several advantages:

Rapid Turnaround: Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours after the lab receives the sample, significantly faster than traditional urine cultures, which can take up to five days.
Comprehensive Detection: The test can identify a broad range of bacterial and fungal pathogens, including those that are fastidious or present in polymicrobial infections, which standard cultures may miss.
Antibiotic Resistance Profiling: P-AST™ assesses the effectiveness of various antibiotics against the detected pathogens, enabling personalized and effective treatment plans.

This advanced testing method enhances our ability to diagnose and treat UTIs accurately, reducing the likelihood of recurrence and improving patient outcomes.

Personalized UTI Treatment at UPNT

With precise diagnostic information from the Guidance® UTI test, our urologists at UPNT can tailor treatment plans to each patient’s specific needs. This personalized approach includes:

Targeted Antibiotic Therapy: Selecting the most effective antibiotics based on the susceptibility profile of the identified pathogens.
Preventive Strategies: Implementing measures to reduce the risk of recurrence, such as lifestyle modifications and, when appropriate, prophylactic treatments.
Comprehensive Care: Addressing underlying conditions that may contribute to recurrent UTIs, ensuring a holistic approach to patient health.

When to Consult a Urologist

Consider scheduling an appointment with a UPNT urologist if you experience:

Early intervention can prevent complications and promote long-term urinary health.

Why Choose UPNT for UTI Care

At UPNT, we are dedicated to providing exceptional urological care for women across North Texas. Our commitment includes:

Expertise: Our team of experienced urologists specializes in diagnosing and treating urinary tract infections with the latest medical advancements.
Advanced Diagnostics: Utilizing cutting-edge tests like Pathnostics' Guidance® UTI to ensure accurate and timely diagnoses.
Patient-Centered Approach: Focusing on individualized care plans that address each patient's unique health needs and concerns.

FAQs About UTIs in Women

How does the Guidance® UTI test differ from standard urine cultures?

The Guidance® UTI test uses advanced molecular techniques to detect a broader range of pathogens more quickly and accurately than traditional cultures, which can miss certain bacteria and take longer to yield results.

What is Pooled Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing (P-AST™)?

P-AST™ evaluates how effective various antibiotics are against all the pathogens detected in a urine sample, allowing for more precise and effective treatment decisions.

Can this testing method help with recurrent UTIs?

Yes, by accurately identifying the causative organisms and their antibiotic resistance profiles, the test enables targeted treatments that can reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

Is the Guidance® UTI test suitable for all women with UTIs?

While particularly beneficial for those with recurrent or complicated infections, this test can be used for any patient where accurate and rapid diagnosis is essential.

How soon can I expect results from the Guidance® UTI test?

Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours after the lab receives the urine sample, allowing for prompt and effective treatment planning.

Does insurance cover the Guidance® UTI test?

Coverage varies by insurance provider. Our administrative team at UPNT can assist you in understanding your benefits and any potential out-of-pocket costs.

Take Control of Your Urinary Health

Don’t let urinary tract infections disrupt your life. At Urology Partners of North Texas, we combine expert care with advanced diagnostics to provide effective solutions for UTIs in women.