Understanding & Preventing Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that affects parts of the urinary system, which includes the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys. Most commonly, infections occur in the lower urinary tract—specifically the bladder and urethra.
Typical symptoms include a burning sensation while urinating, pressure or discomfort in the lower abdomen, and an increased urge or frequency to urinate. However, cloudy urine or strong-smelling urine alone are not reliable signs of a UTI.
Women are more susceptible to UTIs than men due to their shorter urethra, which allows bacteria to reach the bladder more easily. Additionally, postmenopausal women face a higher risk because declining estrogen levels can alter the tissues of the vagina and urethra, making infections more likely.
Preventive Measures:
Stay well-hydrated.
Drinking lots of water supports bladder health by keeping tissues moist and flushing out bacteria. Aim to drink at least 1.5 liters (around 50 ounces) of fluid daily, which can help prevent or even naturally clear infections.
Don't hold in urine.
Urinating regularly helps flush out bacteria from the bladder. Avoid letting urine sit in your bladder too long, as it creates an environment where bacteria can thrive. It’s normal to urinate between four and eight times per day.
Urinate after sexual activity.
Intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urethra, so peeing soon afterward helps eliminate some of these microbes before they can cause an infection.
Consider cranberry supplements.
Though research hasn’t definitively proven that cranberry products prevent UTIs, they may still offer some benefit due to their natural properties. If trying this approach, opt for concentrated cranberry supplements instead of juice, which often contains added sugars and may be less effective.
Wipe from front to back.
After using the toilet, wiping front to back helps stop bacteria from the anal area from reaching the urethra and causing an infection.
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