The Relation between Genital Hygiene Behaviors in Women and Urinary Tract Infection in Any Period of Life: Review Article

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur in one out of every 3 females, with a significant recurrence rate that can lead to renal impairment (RI) and kidney damage. RI is a condition that diminishes quality of life and elevates mortality risk. The female vaginal region possesses its own flora. Excessive or improper genital hygiene methods will disturb this flora, facilitating the colonization and proliferation of infections. An increased risk of urogenital infection is associated with women's anatomy, specifically the short urethra and the close proximity of the urethral meatus to the anus and vagina. Objective: This study aimed to throw the light on the relation between genital hygienebehaviors in women and urinary tract infection in any period of life. Material and methods: We searched Google Scholar and PubMed, Science Direct, and other internet databases for Genital Hygiene Behaviors, Women genitalia and Urinary Tract Infection. Only the latest or comprehensive study from 2012 to January 2024 was included, while the authors additionally assessed references from pertinent literature. Languages other than English have been excluded because of the dearth of translation sources. Oral presentations, dissertations, conference abstracts, and unpublished articles were excluded since they did not pertain to significant scientific studies. Conclusion: Genital hygiene is a crucial practice for preventing genital infections and their potentially serious consequences. Personal hygiene practices are essential for the management of numerous infectious disorders. Genital hygiene is a crucial aspect of women's health and is essential for safeguarding reproductive health. Certain genital hygiene techniques employed by women may influence their vulnerability to sexually transmitted infections and the incidence of other reproductive health conditions. Vaginal douching, commonly employed for female genital cleanliness, alters the vaginal chemistry, disrupts the healthy flora, and elevates the possibility of infections. Urinary tract infections were more prevalent among individuals who regularly engaged in vaginal douching. There exists a substantial correlation between urinary tract infections and vaginal douching. However, alterations in vaginal flora diminish its resistance to pathogenic bacteria, facilitating their colonization. These colonizing bacteria induce urinary tract infections. The etiologies of urinary tract infections encompass recent utilization of antimicrobial agents, vaginal operations, and irregular administration of antibiotics following these interventions.