A lower urinary tract infection is an infection of the urethra, bladder, or both. The urethra is a tube that “leads” urine from the bladder out of the body. The bladder and urethra are part of the urinary tract. For this reason, a bladder infection is called a lower urinary tract infection. In the presence of such an infection, a burning sensation is often experienced during urination, as well as pressure or pain in the lower abdomen. Very often, frequent or false urges to urinate may occur when the amount of urine output is very small. The urine may have an unpleasant smell, sometimes there may even be blood in it. The most common cause of a bladder infection is a bacterial infection that enters the bladder through the urethra. There are various factors that increase the risk of bladder infection. Among them are: insufficient fluid consumption, sexual contact, poor hygiene, kidney or bladder stones, pregnancy, menopause, diabetes, presence of a catheter, genetic defects of the urinary tract or kidneys, chemicals. NEWS_MORE_BOX Women are more likely to suffer from bladder infections than men because their urethra is shorter. In this way, it is easier for bacteria from the external environment to enter the bladder. Although it is widely believed that a cold or a draft can cause a bladder infection, this is not true. As a way of prevention, it is recommended to consume two liters of water a day, as well as frequent urination to “wash away” the bacteria. Urination should be done as soon as possible after feeling the need, urine should not be retained.