What Causes Utis in Children?
Medically reviewed by Andre Stone | MD, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine on August 25th, 2026.
UTIs in children are primarily caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra. E. coli accounts for approximately 80-90% of childhood UTIs, typically migrating from the intestinal tract. Holding urine for long periods may increase the risk of a UTI. Bacteria from stool can also reach the urethra, although a UTI does not necessarily mean that a child has poor hygiene. Some children with recurrent UTIs have urinary tract conditions such as vesicoureteral reflux, in which urine flows backward from the bladder toward the kidneys. Constipation and problems emptying the bladder can increase UTI risk. Bubble baths may irritate the genital or urethral area and cause urinary symptoms, but irritation alone is not a UTI. After infancy, UTIs are more common in girls, partly because their urethra is shorter and closer to the anus. In early infancy, however, UTIs may be more common in boys, especially those who are uncircumcised.
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