Urinary Tract Infections are a common bacterial problem that affects women of all ages. It’s a painful experience, and can often happen multiple times a year. To prevent or shorten the length of a UTI, here are a few things to consider.
1. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated can lower the chances of getting a UTI significantly. And even when you already have a UTI, it is at the top of the list on how to get rid of a uti easily. A lot of people don’t take in enough water to counteract normal dehydration. Women that drink less than 1.5 liters per day will find that UTI’s are one of the many side effects that they have to worry about. With summers getting hotter and dryer, staying hydrated is a health necessity.
2. Antibiotics
If you keep getting UTI’s, then preventative antibiotics are a good thing to have. This is usually recommended when the UTI’s happen constantly after intercourse despite taking the necessary precautions. Antibiotic Prophylaxis can be taken after intercourse to prevent a UTI from developing into a bad problem. Ask your doctor if you qualify for this treatment, or look at alternatives with similar properties. This is still considered one of the more effective ways to deal with consistent UTI problems.
3. Cranberries
Cranberry juice and supplements are underutilized. They are perfect for preventing UTI’s, but pretty useless once you get one. A lot of people include cranberry juice into their hydration routine after getting a UTI, when the best use scenario is before the symptoms even start. Incorporate cranberries into your daily routines to lower the chance of getting a UTI. This food is abundant in proanthocyanidins, a chemical compound that prevents bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall.
4. Avoid Scented Products
The rise of feminine hygiene products came with a lot of pros and cons. Fragrances are pleasant for all parts of the body, but hey can also be an irritant to sensitive genital tissues. Buying from well-known brands can prevent UTI problems, as lesser-known brands are more likely to upset the vaginal microbiome. Over time, harmful bacteria will thrive long enough to create a UTI. Choose wisely when buying scented douches, pads, tampons, bath products and powders.
5. Choose the Right Birth Control
Birth control can have a lot of unintended side effects. The wrong birth control can make it easier for unwelcome bacteria to multiply in the vagina. The top offender in this list are low quality lubricated condoms. Just like with feminine hygiene products, a good brand is the better purchase to prevent a UTI. It’s frustrating to get a UTI from birth control when you’re doing everything else right. Stay on top of your birth control solutions, and this will never be a problem you’ll have to worry about.
A Healthier Life
Getting a UTI isn’t the end of the world. Unhealthy bacteria is a part of life, but there are plenty of things you can do to halt its progress. Become familiar with preventative measures, and you’ll have less issues dealing with a troubled bladder.
