Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are more common in women than in men and usually present as burning pain while passing urine, urge to use the washroom more often, lower back pain and fever. Some women tend to get recurrent UTIs , these include women with diabetes, post-menopausal women and women with lowered immunity. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria that are already in the bladder, so flushing them out is the most important way to prevent an infection.
Here are some effective ways by which you can prevent recurrent UTIs:
1 . Drink Enough Fluids
One of the easiest and effective ways to prevent UTI is by staying well hydrated. Fluid helps move things through the urinary tract, but it also dilutes the urine so bacteria can’t grow. Make sure you drink 1-2 liters of fluids daily.
2 . Don’t Hold It
The longer urine stays in the bladder, the higher are the chances of bacterial overgrowth since stagnant fluid is an ideal environment for an infection to develop. Do not get into the habit of holding on to it for long, since it will make you prone to infection.
3 . Practice Good Toilet Hygiene
After you’re done, make sure you wipe from front to back to keep from pushing bacteria nearer to your urethra. This is especially important after a bowel movement.
4 . Make Sure You Empty Your bladder After Sex
Sexual intercourse can move bacteria from the vagina into the urethra, thereby increasing risk of infection. Urinating after sex flushes out any bacteria that could have migrated to the bladder during intercourse.
5 . Choose Contraceptives With Caution
If you are prone to UTI, it is best to avoid spermicides and diaphragms. Spermicides not only introduce bacteria into your vagina but they also alter your vaginal pH, which can create an ideal environment for bacterial overgrowth. Diaphragms may interfere with your ability to empty your bladder completely , thereby increasing the risk of infection.
6 . Use Female Hygiene Products Carefully
If you get UTI too often, avoid bubble baths, bath oils and perfumed products around genital area. Some doctors suggest switching from tampons to sanitary pads, since tampons may give bacteria more opportunity to enter the body and irritate the urethra.
7 . Change Out Of Workout Clothes Quickly
If you are prone to UTI it is best to change out of your workout clothes right after you are done. Excessive sweat can increase risk of bacterial multiplication which in turn can migrate into your urethra and lead to UTI.