Kidney infections in females are most commonly caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract through the urethra and travel to the kidneys. The urethra is shorter in women than in men, which makes it easier for bacteria to travel from outside the body to the bladder. The urethra being close to the vagina and anus also makes it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder. Once in the bladder, an infection can spread to the kidneys. Other factors that increase the risk of kidney infections in females include:

• Having a urinary tract blockage
• Having a weakened immune system
• Being pregnant
• Being postmenopausal
• Having a history of kidney stones
• Sexual activity
• Using certain birth control methods

It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of kidney infections in women, which include:

• Pain in the sides of the lower back
• Fever
• Chills
• Pain while urinating
• Cloudy, dark, bloody, or foul-smelling urine
• Frequent, painful urination

If left untreated, kidney infections can lead to serious complications such as kidney scarring, high blood pressure, kidney failure, blood poisoning, and pregnancy complications[[3]](https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/kidney-infection-pyelo...