Urinary tract infections are surprisingly common – especially among women. Up to 20% of all women will experience a urinary tract infection, or UTI, at some point in their lifetime. Most urinary tract infections occur in the lower urinary tract, although the kidneys can be involved in some cases. Kidney infections can be serious enough to require hospitalization – and need immediate attention. Some women are more prone to urinary tract infections than others, but, fortunately, there are simple ways to prevent painful urinary tract infections - that really work.
Change Clothing and Personal Care Products to Prevent a UTI
People who wear underwear made of synthetic fabrics increase their risk of UTI because these fabrics accumulate moisture which makes it easier for the bacteria that cause urinary tract infections to grow and thrive. To prevent a UTI, switch over to 100% cotton underwear and avoid wearing tight pants that irritate the urethral area.
To prevent a UTI, avoid using scented bath products or harsh soaps, particularly bubble baths which can irritate the urethra.
Flush Out the Bacteria to Prevent a Painful Urinary Tract Infection
Drink more water (eight glasses a day) to help flush bacteria that cause painful urinary tract infections out of the bladder. Even better is to alternate water with cranberry juice. Cranberry juice contains proanthocyanidins, natural compounds which keep bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract.
Don’t like the taste of cranberry juice? Pick up cranberry pill supplements from a health food store instead. It’s especially important to drink more fluids when it’s hot outside since UTIs are more common in the summer months when people are more prone to dehydration.
Other Personal Care Habits to Change to Reduce the Risk of UTI
Make it a point to urinate as soon as the urge strikes. Urinating frequently flushes out bacteria that can lead to a painful urinary tract infection. Avoid wiping from back to front since this can transfer colonic bacteria to the opening of the urinary tract.
Always urinate before and after sexual intercourse to flush out bad bacteria. One of the most common ways women get urinary tract infections is through sexual intercourse. Using spermicides also increases the risk of urinary tract infections because these chemicals kill the good bacteria in the urinary tract that help to fight off infection causing bacteria. It’s best to use an alternative form of birth control.
The Bottom Line?
Painful urinary tract infections are a common occurrence for some women. If they these prevention strategies don’t stop their frequency, it’s important to see a doctor. In some cases, a more thorough work-up or low dose antibiotic therapy may be needed to keep them under control.
Reference:
Medscape.com website. “Urinary Tract Infections: A Primer for Clinicians”. Accessed 4/28/10.
Kristie Leong - I'm a family physician interested in all aspects of traditional and alternative medicine, especially the use of nutrition to prevent ...
