Kidney stones are a common urology condition that occurs in both genders. But women have unique risk factors — including hormone fluctuations, dietary choices and lifestyle habits. These hard deposits of minerals and salts form in the kidneys and can cause intense pain and discomfort if they travel through the urinary tract. Know how kidney stones in women develop to make prevention and early management possible.
How Common Are Kidney Stones in Women?
Kidney stones are often thought of as a man’s disease, but they are increasingly a woman’s disease, too. Research indicates that although men are more likely to develop kidney stones, the difference between the sexes has been decreasing over recent decades. The rising rates of kidney stone cases in women, especially women aged 20 to 50 years, are attributed to changes in dietary and lifestyle habits and other chronic medical conditions like obesity and recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI).
In women, urinary tract infections — which can cause struvite stones — are common, although kidney stones in women are less common than in men. Pregnancy and menopausal hormonal changes can also affect urine composition, raising the risk of stones forming. Recent improvements in diagnostic techniques and increased awareness of the condition have resulted in a greater number of women being diagnosed with kidney stones than previously.
Key Causes Of Kidney Stones In Women?
Here are the top reasons for kidney stones in ladies :–
Dehydration
Low fluid intake is one of the main reasons behind kidney stones, especially in women. Urine becomes concentrated when the body does not have enough water, which lets minerals and salts crystallize into stones. Women who do not drink enough fluids, particularly in hot conditions or after strenuous exercise, are more at risk. The key to avoiding kidney formation is to stay hydrated.
High-Oxalate, High-Sodium Diet
Some dietary habits play a major role in the formation of stones. Oxalates, which are present in foods such as spinach, beets, nuts, and chocolate, bind with calcium in the kidneys and cause the formation of stones. Furthermore, a sodium-rich meal is also responsible for making the body bored with calcium, leaving the excess calcium dissolved in urine, which further increases the chances of stone formation. A diet high in processed foods, salty snacks, and/or animal protein puts a woman at higher risk for developing kidney stones.
Pregnancy and Hormonal Changes
Types of kidney stones (Hormonal changes) Estrogen levels in a post-menopausal woman, for example, are less than that of a woman in the prime of life, resulting in poorer absorption of calcium from the food and higher tendency to stone formation. Changes in calcium metabolism during pregnancy can also contribute to the formation of kidney stones, compounded by decreased fluid intake due to nausea and vomiting.
Cystitis Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
As a result of their shorter urethra, women are more susceptible to urinary tract infections (UTIs). Based on the manner UTIs can lead to struvite kidney stones, which arise from bacterial infections in the urinary system. These stones can grow quickly and trigger serious complications if untreated. Good hygiene, prompt treatment of UTIs, and staying hydrated also can help minimize the risk of infection-related kidney stones.
Overweight and Sedentary Lifestyle
Obesity and lack of physical activity are established risk factors for kidney stones in women. Metabolic derangements with excess body weight can cause increased urinary oxalates and calcium excretion. Also, reduction of physical activity will slow down the metabolic processes and predispose to the stone generation. Regular physical activity and a healthy weight are important for kidney health.
Supplements for Calcium and Vitamin D
Calcium is important for bone health, but too many supplements can raise your kidney stone risk. Women taking high doses of calcium or vitamin D supplements without medical advice might have higher calcium in their urine, which can generate stones. Consult a doctor before supplementing to ensure bone health is balanced with kidney function.
Medications and Health Problems
Some medications and medical conditions can also lead to the formation of kidney stones. Other women with certain conditions — hyperparathyroidism, inflammatory bowel disease, and renal tubular acidosis — are also at increased risk for stone formation. Medications such as diuretics, too much vitamin C and certain antibiotics can also raise the risk. Depending on this, you can consult a doctor for regular health check-ups so that a disease can be detected early and prevented.
Family History and Genetic Factors
Your genetics also play a role in the formation of kidney stones. Women who have a familial history of kidney stones are more prone to developing them, as they have inherited metabolic tendencies. For those with a family history of kidney stones, prevention by staying properly hydrated and eating a low-protein, but moderate, diet is very important.
Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Stones in Women
Symptoms of kidney stones depend on their size and location. Common symptoms include:
- Intense pain in the lower back, side or abdomen
- Blood in urine (hematuria)
- More urination than normal, including painful urination.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever and chills (if there is an infection)
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
Prevention and Treatment
Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water (2-3 liters daily) flushes out minerals and prevents stone formation. It can be beneficial to carrier other molecule since citric acid prevents growth of the stone.
Maintain a Balanced Diet
- Reduce sodium intake
- Limit high-oxalate foods
- Eat calcium-rich foods but no extra supplements
- Eat well with fruits, vegetables and lean proteins
Exercise Regularly
Obesity-related kidney stones are prevented by keeping a healthy weight and remaining active.
Minimize Chronic Medical Conditions
Controlling conditions such as UTIs, hyperparathyroidism and digestive disorders can decrease the risk of forming kidney stones.
If Necessary, Seek Medical Help
If you have symptoms of a kidney stone, it is important to see a urologist for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Tiny stones can pass without any treatment, but larger stones may need medical procedures like shock wave lithotripsy, ureteroscopy, or possibly surgery.
Closing Thoughts
In women, the causes of kidney stones may vary, including diet, dehydration, hormonal changes, and medical conditions. Knowing these risk factors will help in preventing stone formation. GET a professional medical advice if you experience symptoms of kidney stones.
Dr. Deepanshu Gupta is the best urologist in Gurgaon who provides advanced treatment for kidney stones. A pioneer in his field, our doctor uses his vast experience and patient-centric approach to guarantee effective treatment and ensures long-term kidney health.
Schedule a Consultation Today to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy and Pain-Free!