Constipation and urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common pediatric health issues that can impact the well-being of children. There is a recognized association between constipation and urinary tract infections in children. Constipation can contribute to UTIs by causing stool retention, leading to pressure on the bladder and urinary tract. This pressure can obstruct the normal flow of urine, creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth and infection.
Constipation refers to infrequent bowel movements or difficulty in passing stool. In children, constipation is a prevalent concern. Causes can include a low-fiber diet, inadequate fluid intake, lack of physical activity, and psychological factors. The common symptoms are infrequent bowel movements, pain or discomfort during bowel movements, hard, dry stools, abdominal pain, and bloating.
Urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria enter the urinary system, causing infection. While UTIs are more common in adult women, children, especially girls, can also experience them. UTIs in children may be associated with conditions like constipation, as impacted stools can put pressure on the bladder, impeding the normal flow of urine. The common symptoms are pain or burning during urination, frequent urination, urgency to urinate, abdominal or back pain, and fever.
There is a close relationship between the urinary system and the lower intestine (rectum) as both systems have a common origin during development, share a common nerve supply, and share the same area in the child’s pelvis.
When a child is constipated and holds stool longer than normal, there are two ways it affects the urinary system - one, there is bacterial overgrowth and it is these bacteria from the stool that usually cause the UTI. Secondly, when a lot of stool is sitting in the rectum, it reduces the ability of the bladder to empty the urine, and then UTI is caused by the stale urine in the bladder. It works both ways, and frequent UTIs can also alter the bowel habits of the child. This is why a good conversation with your doctor about both systems will be very helpful and every child with constipation must be considered to be at higher risk of a UTI.
