4 Ways Women Can Prevent UTI
As a woman, you may be all too familiar with the pain and discomfort of urinary tract infections (UTIs). And while dealing with them can take time, prevention is always better than treatment. There have been cases with severe complications, even leading to death due to untreated UTIs. Fortunately, there are some practical steps you can take to help reduce your risk of developing a urinary tract infection.
Keep Genitals Clean & Dry
The first way to prevent UTI is to keep your genital area clean and dry. Follow good hygiene habits like wiping from front to back after using the bathroom. If you stay at home often, it is a good idea to buy a bidet. It is known that bidet is suitable for genital cleaning. It is also known to be helpful for people with hemorrhoids. Aside from that, wearing breathable underwear such as cotton and changing out wet clothing quickly is also helpful. Taking showers instead of baths can also help lower your risk. This is because bacteria can easily spread and linger in a bathtub.
Drink Plenty of Water
The second way you can prevent UTIs is by drinking plenty of water. Drinking water helps flush out bacteria and other potential irritants, so ensure you’re getting at least eight glasses of water daily. This can help your body stay better hydrated and can also help clear away any bacteria that may be trying to make their way into your urinary tract. Some women prefer bringing a water bottle with them in the office or even setting a timer to remind themselves to drink. However, if you work in the field, you should bring a huge jug of water with you.
Urinate After Sexual Intercourse
The third way to prevent UTI is to urinate soon after sexual intercourse. This helps wash away any bacteria that may have been introduced during intercourse, preventing infection. If you cannot make it to the bathroom right away, try standing up and doing some light exercise, like jogging in place or jumping jacks, to help flush the bacteria out of your urinary tract. Many women do not actually practice this but are rather aware of it. It is known that there have been many cases of women who have contracted UTIs due to lack of urinating after intercourse.
Take Some Supplements
The last way to help prevent UTI is to take some supplements. Cranberry extract, probiotics, and D-mannose are all-natural supplements that can help reduce your risk of developing a urinary tract infection. Talk to your doctor before taking any new supplement so they can suggest the appropriate dosage for you. Some make the mistake of taking too much of these supplements, but there are also risks in taking too little.
This is something that you should remember. By following these four simple steps, you can help protect yourself from developing a urinary tract infection. With some proactive steps and preventive measures, you can take control of your body and reduce your risk of UTI. Remember, prevention is always better than treatment. So make sure to use these tips to stay healthy and UTI-free. We hope that you have found this blog post helpful.
