How To Prevent Urinary Tract Infections

  • December 30, 2009
  • 1,125 Views
Please install Flash

UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urethra; women are especially prone to this painful condition. Take these steps to help prevent one.

You Will Need

  • Cranberry juice
  • Fresh water
  • Cotton panties
  • Cranberry supplements (optional) (optional) (optional)
How To Prevent Urinary Tract Infections: Drink cranberry juice

Step 1: Drink cranberry juice

Add cranberry juice to your daily or weekly diet. Cranberry may cut the risk of urinary tract infections.

You can also take cranberry supplements in capsule form.

How To Prevent Urinary Tract Infections: Drink more water

Step 2: Drink more water

Drink plenty of water to flush out the urinary tract.

How To Prevent Urinary Tract Infections: Take showers

Step 3: Take showers

Skip the tub and use the shower instead. Bacteria can easily enter the urethra in a hot bath.

How To Prevent Urinary Tract Infections: Don't use sprays and douches

Step 4: Don't use sprays and douches

Avoid feminine hygiene sprays and douches. They can irritate the urethra and increase the risk of an infection.

How To Prevent Urinary Tract Infections: Wipe from front to back

Step 5: Wipe from front to back

When using the toilet, wipe from front to back.

How To Prevent Urinary Tract Infections: Wear cotton panties

Step 6: Wear cotton panties

Wear cotton underwear. Cotton allows your skin to breathe, which helps prevent bacteria from accumulating around the urinary tract.

How To Prevent Urinary Tract Infections: Pee after sex

Step 7: Pee after sex

Urinate following sexual intercourse. Bacteria can enter the urethra during intercourse; going to the bathroom immediately after sex helps flush out bacteria.

How To Prevent Urinary Tract Infections: See a doctor if you experience symptoms

Step 8: See a doctor if you experience symptoms

If you experience UTI symptoms, such as a frequent urge to urinate and a painful, burning feeling in the area of the bladder or urethra during urination, see your doctor.

Urinary tract infections account for about 8.3 million doctor visits each year.

Something wrong?

Report This How-To

Cancel

Comments (0)

There are no comments. Be the first!

or to post a comment. Or, sign in using your Facebook to comment
and share your activity with your friends