The main cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs) is bacteria.
UTIs occur when microbes, most commonly bacteria, enter the urinary tract and cause an infection. While fungi can sometimes cause UTIs, it's far less common than bacterial infections.
The Primary Culprit: E. coli
Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria, which normally reside in the bowel, are responsible for the majority of UTIs. These bacteria can travel from the anus to the urethra and then up into the bladder, causing infection.
Other Potential Causes (Less Common)
While E. coli is the most frequent culprit, other bacteria can also cause UTIs, including:
- Staphylococcus saprophyticus
- Klebsiella pneumoniae
- Proteus mirabilis
- Enterococcus faecalis
In rare cases, fungi can also cause UTIs.
Summary
In short, bacteria, especially E. coli, are the predominant cause of urinary tract infections.
