Burning, Foul-Smelling Urine in Women? Here’s What You Should Know By Dr. Prerna Bedi Lakhotia (Infectious Disease & Critical Care Consultant, Indore) Let’s be honest -talking about burning during urination or a strange smell from urine isn’t something most women are comfortable with. But as an Infectious Disease Specialist, I want you to know this: these are common issues, and you’re not alone. If you’re experiencing painful urination and foul-smelling urine, it could be a sign of an underlying infection — and ignoring it can lead to more serious problems. The good news? Most cases can be treated quickly and effectively — once we know what we’re dealing with. What Does It Mean When Urine Smells Bad and Burns? These symptoms often point to a urinary tract infection (UTI) — something many women will experience at least once in their lives. But other possibilities exist too, including vaginal infections, STIs, or even something as simple as not drinking enough water. Common Causes of Painful and Foul-Smelling Urination in Women *Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) • Most common cause • Caused by bacteria like E. coli • Triggers: poor hygiene, dehydration, holding urine, sexual activity • Symptoms: burning, urgency, frequent urination, cloudy or smelly urine *Vaginal Infections • Bacterial Vaginosis or Yeast Infections • Can cause irritation that makes urinating painful • Often comes with vaginal discharge or itching *Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) • Chlamydia, gonorrhea, or trichomoniasis • May cause pain, smell, unusual discharge • Often silent — but serious if not treated *Kidney or Bladder Infections • When a UTI travels upward • Symptoms include back pain, fever, fatigue • Needs immediate medical attention *Dehydration or Dietary Causes • Not drinking enough water can concentrate urine and make it smell strong • Certain foods (like asparagus or coffee) can also affect odor, but not cause pain When Should You See a Doctor? Don’t wait if: • Symptoms last more than 2 days • There’s fever, back pain, or nausea • You notice blood in urine • You’re pregnant or have diabetes • You’ve had recurrent UTIs These are signs your body needs more than just home remedies. *How We Diagnose and Treat It As an Infectious Disease Consultant, I focus on targeted treatment — not just guessing with antibiotics. Here’s what I typically do: • Urine test & culture to find the exact bacteria • Vaginal swabs if needed (for STIs or fungal infections) • Blood tests or ultrasound if the infection is more severe Treatment may include: • Specific antibiotics (no over-the-counter guessing!) • Probiotics, hydration, and hygiene advice • Partner testing if it’s an STI • Follow-up care to prevent recurrence *Tips to Prevent UTIs & Vaginal Infections Here’s how to protect your intimate health: • Drink 2–3 liters of water daily • Don’t hold urine for too long • Always urinate after intercourse • Wipe front to back after using the toilet • Avoid harsh soaps or douching • Wear cotton underwear and change regularly 💬 A Note From Dr. Prerna I’ve seen so many women suffer silently — either out of embarrassment or simply not knowing that burning urine is not “normal”. Your body speaks to you through symptoms. And this is one you shouldn’t ignore. Most urinary or vaginal infections are easy to treat when caught early. But when ignored, they can lead to complications — kidney infections, chronic pain, or fertility issues. If you’re facing this issue, don’t feel ashamed — just feel empowered to act. #UTIAwareness #WomensHealthIndore #PainfulUrination #FoulSmellingUrine #UrineInfection #WomensIntimateHealth #DrPrernaLakhotia #IndoreDoctor #InfectiousDiseaseSpecialist