Kim Smith never imagined a simple urinary tract infection could cost her her limbs—but that’s precisely what happened. What started as mild back pain on vacation quickly turned into a medical emergency. Within days, she was in a coma, her body ravaged by sepsis. When she woke, her hands and legs were gone.
More than 15 million American women get UTIs each year. Most are easily treated—but if left untreated, the infection can spread to the kidneys or bloodstream, triggering sepsis, a deadly immune reaction. For Kim, delays in care and an unfilled prescription created a perfect storm. Her limbs turned black from oxygen loss and had to be amputated.
“I was fit and healthy,” she said. “It happened so fast. I want every woman to know this could happen to them.”
UTIs begin when bacteria—often E. coli—enter the urinary tract. While antibiotics are the go-to treatment, there are natural ways to help prevent infections in the first place:
- Stay hydrated. Water flushes bacteria from the bladder.
- Urinate after sex. This clears out any bacteria introduced during intimacy.
- Wipe front to back. It reduces the transfer of bacteria from the rectum.
- Wear cotton underwear. Breathable fabric discourages bacterial growth.
- Add probiotics. Fermented foods, such as yogurt or sauerkraut, support a healthy microbiome.
- Try cranberry or D-mannose. These supplements may help prevent bacteria from sticking to bladder walls.
Kim’s story is a powerful reminder not to ignore your body’s signals. If you suspect a UTI, don’t wait. “I’m lucky to be alive,” she says. “If my story saves just one person, it’s worth it.”