Urinary tract infections (UTIs) which can affect the bladder, kidneys and the uterus can be more dangerous if they are left untreated. By taking simple steps, everyone especially women, can avoid getting a UTI.
Preventive measures which are widely used to prevent UTI:
- Drinking plenty of water is the first step towards prevention, dehydration can concentrate your urine thus leading to infection. If you are not emptying frequently, it leads to bacterial overgrowth in the bladder.
- Do not ‘hold on’ when you need to go.
- Make sure even your children follow the same.
- Make sure that personal hygiene is maintained.
- There is some evidence that unsweetened cranberry juice stops bacteria from sticking to the walls of the bladder.
Advice for women
- Try to maintain a good hygiene, wiping the area from front to back after going to the toilet.
- Wear cotton underwear.
- Avoid tight-fitting or synthetic clothing.
- Using soap or perfumed products in the genital area should be avoided.
- Use a lubricant during sex.
- Emptying the bladder soon after sexual intercourse is important.
- Don’t use douches, sprays or powders in genital area.
References:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/uti-home-remedies#section8
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/understanding-urinary-tract-infections-prevention
By,
Dr. Y. Alekhya