How will my doctor examine me for a UTI?

If you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI), your initial evaluation by your doctor will include a medical history and physical exam. A medical history includes an evaluation of your current urinary tract symptoms, history of urinary tract infections or other urinary tract problems, family health history and sexual history. You and your doctor will discuss your general health and the results of previous testing.

For women, your doctor will:

• Evaluate the possibility of pregnancy and any history of reproductive problems.
• Include a pelvic exam if symptoms indicate a possible pelvic infection or urethritis.
• Examine your lower back, abdomen and the area just above where the pelvic bone and the lower abdomen meet for tenderness, pain or abnormalities.
• Take your temperature.

For men, your doctor will:

• Evaluate any history of prostate problems.
• Examine your genitals, lower back and abdomen.
• Examine your rectum and rectal area to check for prostate enlargement, growths or inflammation.
• Take your temperature.