Urinary Tract Infections: 6 Ways To Prevent Them

A urinary tract infection, also known as a UTI, is an infection that affects any part of your urinary system, which includes the kidneys, bladder, ureters and urethra (Mayo Clinic, 2020). Women are more likely to have UTIs than men, with 1 in 5 women globally having a UTI sometime in their life (Cleveland Clinic, 2020). Common symptoms of a UTI include passing frequent but small amounts of urine, a burning sensation when urinating, cloudy or strange smelling urine and pain or pressure in the lower abdomen.


Source: News Medical

UTIs are quite painful and uncomfortable but can be prevented by simple lifestyle changes. Here are 6 ways that can help you avoid getting them:

  1. Wipe from front to back: It is advisable for women to wipe from front to back to avoid transferring bacteria from the anus to the urethra as they are in close proximity (Santos-Longhurst, 2019).

  2. Urinate after sexual intercourse: During sex, bacteria can be passed from the genitals to the urethra so it is advisable to urinate shortly after to flush bacteria out of the urethra (Sissons, 2019).

  3. Avoid holding your urine: Regular emptying of the bladder aids in reducing the chances of bacteria sitting and multiplying in the bladder (Brusie,2017).

  4. Drink lots of water: Drinking water makes your urine diluted and also ensures that you urinate frequently, which helps to flush out bacteria (Mayo Clinic, 2020).

  5. Explore other birth control methods: Research has shown that contraceptive methods such as spermicides and diaphragms increase the risk of developing a UTI so it is better to consider other birth control methods.

  6. Use cotton underwear: Cotton underwear are breathable and do not trap heat and moisture so they do not help bacteria thrive and reduce the risk of getting a UTI.

Do you know any other way to prevent contracting a urinary tract infection?

3 Likes

Thanks for this @nana.gaje!
It’s good to talk about these things. It’s important cause from conversations, you see that a lot of people do not know about these tips (especially the first and second) and continue to put themselves at risk.