A UTI, known in full as a urinary tract infection, is a common infection that affects the urinary tract, comprised of the kidneys, bladder, and urethra. UTIs are very common, especially among women, because their urinary tracts are more exposed. Bacteria like E.coli are usually the cause, but certain fungi can also result in an infection. A UTI is typically characterized by a frequent urge to urinate, cloudy or dark urine, a burning sensation when urinating, pelvic pain, and a strong urine odor. People with UTIs also report feeling constant discomfort.
Antibiotics commonly treat UTIs. However, many people have reported recurrent infections even after treatment. This is typically because the infection-causing bacteria are not eliminated completely. Women can experience recurrent infections four or more times a year. However, this does not mean it is impossible to beat recurrent infections. Below are some tips to help you prevent recurrent UTIs.
Drink plenty of water or unsweetened drinks
The easiest way to beat recurrent UTIs is by drinking plenty of water. Drinking plenty of water causes you to urinate frequently, which helps flush bacteria from your urinary tract and can help prevent infections. Studies show that drinking plenty of water can reduce recurrent UTIs by about 50%. Drinking water will also help with your overall health and keep you hydrated. If you have difficulty taking plain water, you can also take other fluids like juices. However, it is worth mentioning that taking sweetened drinks can cause more harm than good. Sugar creates a suitable environment for bacteria to thrive, grow, and multiply. Therefore, you should always opt for unsweetened drinks like cranberry juice.
Increase your vitamin C intake
Some evidence shows that taking Vitamin C can help reduce recurrent UTIs. This is because vitamin C increases acidity in your urine, and this acidic environment in your urinary tract helps kill the bacteria that cause UTIs. You can increase your vitamin C intake by eating more fruits and vegetables, like oranges, grapefruit, kiwi, and red peppers. Taking vitamin C as a supplement can also help with UTI treatment.
Practice proper hygiene
You can also beat recurrent UTIs by practicing proper hygiene. Studies show that most UTIs develop from poor hygiene practices. For instance, failing to wipe after urinating, not taking frequent showers, or wearing unclean undergarments can cause recurrent urinary tract infections. Something as simple as wiping from front to back can go a long way in preventing recurrent infections. As mentioned before, urinary tract infections can occur at any part of the urinary tract, from the kidneys to the urethra. This means that unhygienic practices can cause bacteria development, spreading to other parts of the urinary tracts. Improper hygiene can also create a thriving environment for existing bacteria.
Practice proper bathroom habits
Improper bathroom habits can also cause UTIs to recur. For instance, holding in your urine for too long can cause bacteria buildup in your urinary tract, causing recurrent infections. Another proper bathroom habit is peeing after sexual intercourse. Furthermore, if possible, you should avoid sex until your infection is treated. This can help prevent bacteria transferred during sexual intercourse from spreading to other parts of your urinary tract.
Conclusion
There is more to preventing recurrent UTIs than typical UTI treatment. Proper practices can help keep your urinary tract free of infection-causing bacteria. If the tips above do not work, you should seek medical advice. Taking probiotics and natural supplements like cranberry and bearberry extracts can also help treat and prevent recurr
