An infection can occur in any part of the urinary system, the kidneys, bladder or urethra. Urinary tract infections are more common in women. They usually occur in the bladder or urethra, but more serious infections involve the kidney.

A bladder infection may cause pelvic pain, increased urge to urinate, pain with urination and blood in the urine. A kidney infection may cause back pain, nausea, vomiting and fever.

A urinary tract infection or UTI is an infection affecting any part of the urinary tract including the bladder, kidneys, ureters (tube that transports urine from the kidney to the bladder) and urethra (tube that empties urine from the bladder). Infection occurs when bacteria attack the bladder or urethra. Urinary tract infections are also known as cystitis

According to Ayurvedic medicine, UTIs are due to an imbalance within 'pitta dosha'.