Urinary Tract Infection Prevention Tips
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) refers to an infection that affects a person’s urinary system. More specifically, it impacts the lower urinary tract, which consists of mainly the urethra and bladder. Here, we will discuss some of the best prevention tips for UTI that can help you keep the infection at bay.
Drink a lot of water
This way you will be able to relieve yourself more often. Drinking water is the simplest prevention tip for UTI. It can easily help you flush out bacteria from your urinary tract and bladder before it permanently sets in.
Keep your genitals clean
It is advisable that after you have used the bathroom; wipe your genitals from front to back. This is because the rectum is the prime source of E.coli and when you wash your genitals properly, it decreases the risk of inviting E.coli to the urethra from the anus.
Avoid products that are scented
This point is for females who use products like scented tampons or pads, douches, deodorant sprays, and scented powders. Such products disrupt the pH level balance. It even allows harmful bacteria to grow, which can result in a UTI.
Urinate frequently
One should never hold their urine for a very long time, as this may lead to UTI. Each time you pass urine, you wash out waste in the form of bacteria. And, you should be more careful if you have a history of UTI.
Choose your clothes properly
To prevent UTI, avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes, which may lead to the buildup of a lot of moisture. By doing this, you can prevent bacteria from growing in your urinary tract. It is also recommended that you wear cotton underwear.
Keep in mind your birth control
A spermicide-lubricated condom, spermicide, and diaphragm can make you vulnerable to getting UTI because all of these lead to the growth of bacteria. Again, if you have a history of UTI and if you have been using the aforementioned products, it’s better to switch to water-based lubricants or use another birth control method, for which you may consult your doctor.
Consume probiotic food products and supplements
Not all bacteria are bad for your urinary tract. Fermented food items such as yogurt, sauerkraut, kefir, and tempeh help in the growth of good bacteria in your urinary tract. Probiotics are also available as supplements. Lactobacillus strains have also been known with less UTI.
Eat cranberries
Cranberry consumption is probably one of the best natural prevention tips for UTI. Cranberries have proanthocyanidins, which are compounds that prevent E-coli from sticking to tissues present in the urinary tract.
If the infection persists and does not go away despite adhering to the aforementioned prevention tips, one should consult a doctor immediately.