Why urinary tract infections may be more common in healthcare workers

Ask almost any nurse, healthcare assistant or care worker whether they’ve ever delayed going to the toilet during a busy shift, and many will probably smile knowingly. 

When patients come first, it’s easy to ignore your own needs. Lunch breaks get pushed back, water bottles stay full and toilet breaks become “I’ll go after I’ve finished this.” 

Most of us have done it. 

While there’s no evidence that simply working in healthcare causes urinary tract infections (UTIs), some workplace habits—such as delaying urination and not drinking enough fluids—may increase the risk for some people. 

What is a UTI? 

A urinary tract infection is an infection that can affect the bladder, urethra or, less commonly, the kidneys. 

UTIs are particularly common in women because the female urethra is shorter, allowing bacteria to reach the bladder more easily. 

According to the NHS, most UTIs are caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract and are usually straightforward to treat. 

The reality of healthcare shifts 

Healthcare workers often face: 

• Busy wards with limited opportunities for breaks. 

• Long procedures or clinics. 

• High patient demand. 

• PPE that can make taking comfort breaks more difficult. 

• Long periods on their feet. 

These pressures can make it tempting to “hold on” until there’s a quieter moment—which sometimes never comes. 

Does delaying toilet breaks increase the risk? 

The NHS advises not to hold urine in for long periods if it can be avoided. 

Regularly delaying urination may allow bacteria to remain in the bladder for longer, potentially increasing the chance of infection in some people. 

Occasionally waiting because you’re busy is unlikely to cause a UTI on its own, but if it becomes a regular habit alongside other risk factors, it may contribute to the overall risk. 

Don’t forget to drink 

Many healthcare workers unintentionally become dehydrated during long shifts. 

Drinking enough fluids helps your kidneys produce urine, which naturally flushes bacteria from the urinary tract. 

If your urine is consistently dark yellow, it may be a sign that you need to drink more fluids, although urine colour can also be affected by certain foods, medications and vitamins. 

Simple ways to reduce your risk 

While UTIs cannot always be prevented, the NHS recommends several practical steps: 

• Drink enough fluids throughout the day. 

• Go to the toilet when you need to rather than regularly holding it. 

• Empty your bladder fully. 

• Wipe from front to back after using the toilet. 

• Urinate after sex if you’re prone to recurrent UTIs. 

• Avoid heavily perfumed soaps or products around the genital area if they cause irritation. 

• Wear breathable underwear if possible. 

For healthcare teams, encouraging one another to take hydration and comfort breaks isn’t just about wellbeing—it can also support safer working. 

When should you seek medical advice? 

The NHS recommends speaking with your GP or contacting NHS 111 if you think you have a UTI. 

Common symptoms include: 

• Pain or a burning sensation when passing urine. 

• Needing to urinate more often than usual. 

• Suddenly needing to urinate urgently. 

• Lower abdominal discomfort. 

• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine. 

• Blood in the urine. 

You should seek urgent medical advice if you have symptoms of a UTI together with: 

• A high temperature. 

• Shivering or chills. 

• Pain in your back or side below your ribs. 

• Confusion (particularly in older adults). 

• Persistent vomiting. 

These symptoms may suggest the infection has reached the kidneys and requires prompt assessment. 

Caring for yourself between caring for others 

Healthcare workers spend every day helping patients meet their most basic needs. 

Remember that your own basic needs—drinking enough water, taking breaks and using the toilet when you need to—are not a luxury. They’re an important part of protecting your health so you can continue looking after everyone else. 

Medical disclaimer 

This article is provided for general information, personal research and editorial opinion only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Urinary symptoms can have several causes, and not all are due to infection. If you think you may have a urinary tract infection, or if your symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek advice from your GP, NHS 111 or another qualified healthcare professional. If you have symptoms suggesting a kidney infection or become seriously unwell, seek urgent medical attention immediately.