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Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are incredibly common, especially among women, and one of the hallmark symptoms is cramping or lower abdominal pain. If you’ve ever experienced that dull ache in your lower stomach and wondered if it could be a sign of a UTI, you’re not alone. In this blog, we’ll walk you through what UTI cramps actually feel like, how they differ from other types of cramps, and how you can find relief quickly and safely.

Looking for same-day UTI testing? Choose Precision Health! We offer a wide variety of STD & UTI tests with no provider visit necessary. Simply choose your test online and visit one of our collection centers in Denver, CO to drop off your sample!

What Do UTI Cramps Feel Like?

UTI cramps are often described as:

  • Dull or aching pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic area
  • Pressure or fullness around the bladder
  • Sharp, sudden twinges during or after urination
  • A persistent discomfort that doesn’t ease even after using the bathroom

Unlike menstrual cramps, which tend to come in waves and are linked to your cycle, UTI-related cramps are more continuous and focused around the urinary system– specifically your bladder and urethra. Cramps from a UTI are usually accompanied by other symptoms like:

  • A strong, persistent urge to urinate
  • A burning sensation when urinating
  • Cloudy, dark, or foul-smelling urine
  • A feeling that your bladder is never fully empty
  • In more severe cases, mild fever or fatigue

What Causes UTI Cramps?

UTI cramps occur due to inflammation and irritation in the urinary tract. When bacteria (typically E. coli) enter the urethra and move upward into the bladder, they cause the bladder lining to become inflamed. This inflammation leads to that uncomfortable pressure and pain in the pelvic region. Your body also triggers muscle contractions in the bladder in an effort to flush out the infection, which can result in the cramping sensation many people describe. If the infection travels further up to the kidneys, the pain can become sharper and spread to the lower back or sides.

How To Quickly Relieve UTI Cramps

If you suspect your cramps are UTI-related, it’s important to seek medical care quickly. A simple urine test can confirm the infection, and antibiotics are typically prescribed to clear it up. That said, here are some ways to relieve cramps in the meantime:

  • Take over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce inflammation and ease pain while you wait for antibiotics to kick in.
  • Apply a warm heating pad on your lower abdomen for temporary relief.
  • Drink plenty of water to help flush bacteria from your urinary tract and ease pressure on the bladder.
  • Avoid irritants like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods as these can further irritate your bladder and worsen cramping.

UTI cramps can escalate quickly if left untreated. The sooner you start antibiotic treatment, the faster you’ll find relief– and prevent more serious complications like a kidney infection. Take the first step by getting UTI testing today so your provider can prescribe the medication you need to recover.

Get UTI Testing With No Provider Visit Necessary With Precision Health

UTI cramps are uncomfortable and disruptive, but they’re also your body’s way of telling you something isn’t right. Understanding what they feel like and how to treat them can help you act quickly and get the care you need. If you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t wait. Order your UTI test online today and get rapid results and convenient treatment. Precision Health is dedicated to providing fast, confidential UTI and STD testing for all patients in the Denver, CO area. We do not require in-house provider visits, which makes testing more efficient and affordable than ever. If you’d like to know more about our testing services, or are unsure of which tests you need, contact our team directly at (303) 756-2102