Exploring Stigma Communication About Urinary Tract Infections in the United States

Area of Science:

• Sociology
• Public Health
• Communication Studies

Background:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are rising in prevalence and severity among women in the U.S.
• Women often face reluctance in discussing UTIs due to societal stigma.
• Stigma communication significantly influences women's experiences with UTI symptoms and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore women's experiences with stigma communication surrounding urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• To understand how stigma management communication theories apply to the experience, diagnosis, and treatment of UTIs.

Main Methods:

• Utilized in-depth interviews with women in 2022.
• Applied qualitative analysis to understand lived experiences with UTI stigma.

Main Results:

• Participants perceived UTIs as stigmatized due to associations with gender, sexual behavior, genital health, and hygiene.
• Women employed various stigma management strategies: acceptance, ignorance, avoidance, responsibility reduction, and challenging stigma.
• Stigma communication impacts UTI symptom perception and treatment adherence.

Conclusions:

• The theory of stigma management communication provides a framework for understanding UTI experiences.
• Findings inform strategies for improving provider-patient interactions and reducing stigma in UTI care.
• Understanding stigma is crucial for effective UTI prevention and treatment in women.