Women with reduced estrogen levels tend to have recurrent urinary tract infections due to?

Women with reduced estrogen levels tend to have recurrent urinary tract infections due to increased susceptibility to bacteria. Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the vaginal and urinary tract mucosa. When estrogen levels decrease, as seen during menopause or in certain medical conditions, there can be changes in the vaginal flora, particularly a reduction in beneficial bacteria such as lactobacilli. This flora normally helps maintain an acidic environment that combats the growth of harmful bacteria.

As estrogen decreases, the mucosal barrier may also become thinner and less effective at preventing the colonization of pathogens, which increases the likelihood of bacterial invasion and subsequent urinary tract infections. Therefore, the reduction in estrogen results in an increased susceptibility to infections, highlighting the importance of hormonal balance in urinary tract health.