Preventing UTIs: 5 Vital Tips to Help Prevent the Issue Entirely
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Time to read 4 min
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common affliction that affects millions of people each year, especially women. These infections occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Symptoms of a UTI can include a strong, persistent urge to urinate, a burning sensation while urinating, cloudy, dark, bloody, or strong-smelling urine, and pain or pressure in the lower abdomen.
That said, while UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics, preventing UTIs is always better than curing them. Today, we will discuss a couple of vital tips to help prevent urinary tract infections and maintain optimal urinary health:
Dr Dmitry Loktionov - MB. BCh. OB-GYN
TL;DR
1. Stay Hydrated Helps in Preventing UTIs
One of the simplest ways to prevent UTIs is to stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Water helps to flush out bacteria from the urinary system, reducing the chances of infection.
Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day, and more if you are physically active or live in a hot climate. While increasing your fluid intake will lead to more frequent trips to the bathroom, this is essential to keep the urinary tract clean and free from harmful bacteria.
2. Practice Good Hygiene
Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial to preventing UTIs. If you are a woman, always wipe from front to back after using the toilet to avoid spreading bacteria from the rectal area to the urethra.
Similarly, choose gentle, unscented soaps and products to avoid irritation and maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the genital area. Additionally, make sure to shower regularly and change your underwear daily to keep your body clean and bacteria-free, especially after exercise or hot days when you may be sweating more.
3. Urinate When Needed
Go to the toilet often. The reason why you want to urinate often is that holding in urine for long periods can cause bacteria to accumulate in your bladder, increasing the risk of infection. Make a conscious effort to use the restroom whenever you feel the urge to urinate, even if it may seem inconvenient at times. Additionally, always empty your bladder completely, as residual urine can also increase the chances of bacterial growth and infection.
4. Avoid Irritants
Certain products and activities can irritate the urinary tract, making it more susceptible to infections. For instance, avoid using harsh soaps, bubble baths, and scented products, as they can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the genital area.
Additionally, opt for cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes to allow proper air circulation and prevent moisture buildup, which can encourage bacterial growth. And, if you are prone to UTIs, consider minimizing your use of spermicides and [1]diaphragms, as these can also contribute to irritation and infection.
5. Take Precautions After Sexual Activity
A common question gynecologists get is does peeing after sex prevent UTI? The answer is yes. By peeing after sex you are cleaning out your urethra tube by flushing any bacteria out. While sex itself does not cause UTIs, the movements and actions of sex with vaginal penile penetration and genital friction may cause it. This is especially true if you’re sweaty and have not showered recently. Additionally, maintain good hygiene by washing your genital area before and after sex.
Do Condoms Prevent UTIs
The use of condoms can aid in reducing the chances of getting a UTI, however, the right type of condom must be used. [2]Spermicidal condoms should be avoided as the spermicide may support the growth of harmful bacteria in the vagina. Additionally, unlubricated condoms should be avoided as they can damage vaginal tissues. Using a water-based lubricant with the condom can help reduce friction and irritation during intercourse, further reducing the chances of infection.
People with a latex allergy should stay away from latex condoms as they may cause UTIs. Stay away from flavored condoms and lubes, which are often full of sugars, and can also increase UTI risk.
Best Lube for Preventing UTIs
As we’ve already discussed, sex can cause a lot of irritation to the urethra, which may introduce bacteria and increase the risk of a UTI. Unfortunately, there isn't an anti UTI lube but to help reduce friction and therefore safeguard against infection, using a small amount of water-based lube can be beneficial.
Water-based lube is the best option for vaginal health as it’s the most similar to the body's natural vaginal lubrication; however, it is important to check the pH balance of the lube for optimal results. It is not recommended to use flavored lube with sugars or natural oils, such as coconut, as they can provide a breeding ground for bacteria.
Conclusion
All in all, UTIs can cause discomfort and inconvenience, but taking proper precautions can greatly lower your chances and go towards preventing UTIs. Ensuring you drink enough water, maintain good hygiene, and follow other helpful tips can help keep your urinary tract healthy and UTIs away.
However, if you do notice any UTI symptoms, make sure to consult your healthcare professional quickly to get the right treatment and avoid any further issues.
If you are looking for a sexual wellness store that offers products for preventing UTIs, we’ve recently introduced UTI Bah Bye, a super-powered daily supplement that will defend your urinary tract and provide ultimate bladder health!
