12/12/2025
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common reasons women visit their GP. For some, they’re a one-off nuisance. For others, they keep coming back.
Consultant Urologist Miss Louise Olsen explains that hormonal changes make infections more likely at certain stages of life during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. These are natural transitions, but they can affect how the bladder behaves and how easily bacteria can cause infection.
Urinary tract infections are more likely to occur during:
- Puberty and adolescence, when hormone levels are changing for the first time
- During pregnancy, as hormonal shifts and changes in bladder emptying can increase risk
- Perimenopause and menopause, when falling oestrogen levels can affect bladder and vaginal tissue, making infections more likely
If you experience recurrent infections, leakage, urgency, or pain when you urinate, it’s worth seeing a urologist. There are many effective treatments available, from pelvic floor physiotherapy and lifestyle advice to medication and simple procedures.
At The Wilmslow Hospital, Miss Olson works closely with colleagues in gynaecology and endocrinology to offer complete care for women at every stage of life.
Make an appointment with Miss Olson here https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/finder/stepconsultantprofile/louise-olson
