Urinary tract infections can be painful, frustrating, and can cause one to feel miserable. And when ignored, they could degenerate into serious kidney problems. While antibiotics are generally effective in treating UTI within a few days, you could apply some simple tricks to help you prevent getting such infection in the first place.
To say goodbye to the annoying and painful sensation UTI brings, and maintain a healthy urinary tract, here are a few simple measures you can apply.
Drink Plenty of Water
While drinking water will not cure UTI, it is the simplest trick that can help you prevent it. By drinking lots of plain water, you can dilute/flush bacteria out of the urinary tract and bladder before it sets in. Since this will require a lot of water, you can start by guzzling water as soon as you wake up in the morning. Although adding this to your morning routine may feel boring, staying hydrated can help you avoid the painful misery of a urinary tract infection.
Take Unsweetened Cranberry Juice
Drinking unsweetened cranberry juice and UTI prevention go hand in hand for a simple reason: cranberries contain D-mannose and vitamin C – two major anti-UTI ingredients. D-mannose is a naturally occurring sugar ingredient that prevent UTI by eliminating E. coli germs from the urinary tract walls so the bacteria can be easily flushed out when you pee. On the other hand, taking large amounts of vitamin C increases the acidity of your urine. Increased levels of urine acidity will keep your urinary tract free from bacteria. Using uti prevention medicine could be good one also.
Urinate after Sex
Urinating immediately after sex is a super easy trick that can help protect you from a UTI. It flushes out bacteria, and is key to preventing E. coli from sticking around your tract. Just ensure you drink some water before sex so you’ll have enough liquid to urinate afterwards.
Reconsider your Birth Control Method
Using birth control methods such as sponges, diaphragms, and spermicides can increase your increase your risk of UTI since they contribute to the growth of bacteria by trapping these germs in the vagina. If you use one of these birth control methods, you may consider switching to water-based lubricant or other birth control methods. In addition, using menstrual cups rather than pads or tampons during your period, can up your risk of getting a UTI.
Keep Douches and Scented Products Away
As much as good hygiene is great for your overall health, be careful about the products you make use of. Using feminine products that can disrupt the balance of your vagina such as deodorant sprays, douches, and scented powders can eliminate good and healthy bacteria.
Preventing a UTI starts with applying simple tricks and good hygiene habits. By applying these simple measures, you can prevent harmful bacteria from getting into your body. In any case, always seek medical attention quickly if you suspect symptoms of a UTI.