You’ve come to the perfect spot to figure out how to stop a UTI.
Prevention is the best medicine, especially for infectious diseases. We can implement various approaches to lower the danger of contagion, and this issue began to be discussed globally after the current pandemic.
Most of us learned how to prevent respiratory infections. But what about the urinary system? How to prevent a UTI?
In this article, we are looking over the subject and providing you with 9 excellent strategies you can use to ward off infectious illnesses which could harm your urinary tract.
What is a UTI?
UTI is short for Urinary Tract Infection. Any area in the urinary tract can be subject to an infection involving the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. In the majority of instances, it can be found in either the kidneys or the urinary bladder.
A urinary tract infection occurs when a microorganism is transported from the urethra to the bladder. After that, it travels upward, causing kidney infection.
Another possibility is a hematogenous infection. An infection is sent directly to the kidneys through the blood.
Causes & Risk Factors
The source of a urinary tract infection is simple to comprehend.
It is a result of a contagious agent that settles on the lining of the urinary tract. The microbe keeps going up the urinary tract as it advances. It reaches the bladder and populates this area. In the bladder, it causes swelling and alterations in the way it’s sensed.
Patients experience a sense of extreme urgency and discomfort when they need to use the restroom.
If the bacteria is not restrained, it will keep populating the urinary tract. The disease moves upwards to the kidneys.
Sometimes a urinary infection will eradicate in the bladder and stay hidden in the kidneys, generating symptoms that people typically don’t associate with a bladder infection.
The most common bacteria causing a UTI
What are the most frequent types of bacteria that lead to urinary tract infections?
Escherichia coli
Approximately four-fifths of urinary tract infections are attributed to E. coli. This bacteria is abundant in the gastrointestinal system.
In most instances, the sickness is produced due to exposure to excrement.
Staphylococcus
Around 10% of UTIs are caused by these agents. They are present in many areas of our skin, yet sometimes they can move into the urinary system.
Candida albicans
You could contract an infection caused by fungi like this. This yeast variety is notorious for producing complicated or extremely tough-to-treat infections.
But who is at a higher risk? Research indicates that urinary tract infections are more widespread in females. Their urethra is smaller, and it is simpler for germs to get to the urinary bladder.
However, besides your sex, we can also consider a few elements that increase your risk:
Anatomical problems
Individuals with irregularities in their urinary system are in danger of developing Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs).
Abnormalities frequently create a stagnant urine flow, making a perfect place for germs to thrive.
Obstructive disease
An impediment to normal urine flow may be caused by an obstructive illness. As an illustration, benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostate cancer can lead to an increase in the size of the prostate gland.
These patients may heighten the possibility of getting UTIs.
Kidney stones
The particles depart from the kidneys and frequently obstruct the flow as well.
Furthermore, kidney stones tend to be oddly shaped and scrape against the wall of the urinary tract as they move. Both elements increase the risk of infection.
Hormonal deficiency
Women who experience an absence of estrogen are more likely to be prone to infections.
This explains why women past menopause tend to experience more urinary tract infections.
Genetic factors
Individuals who possess certain genetic traits are more likely to become infected with an illness. They alter our immune system, body structure, and other aspects that we do not have dominion over.
Sexual intercourse
Engaging in unprotected anal sex can increase the chances of developing a urinary tract infection.
Immunity factors
Being infected with HIV and having a weaker immune system increase the risk of developing more frequent urinary tract infections and complicated issues within the urinary tract.
Pregnancy
In expectant mothers, the bladder is forced downwards, resulting in compression. They have a diminished immune system which increases their likelihood of getting urinary tract infections.
Patients with a urinary catheter
Having a urinary catheter carries the possibility of developing UTIs.
How To Prevent a UTI: 9 Ways
By taking the aforementioned hazard factors into consideration, you are now better informed as to if you are more prone to a greater risk.
To learn how to prevent a UTI and reduce the incidence of UTIs, you might want to consider the following recommendations:
1: Poor Wiping Habits
Microorganisms from the backside and adjacent domain can easily enter the urethra.
What You Can Do About It
Wipe from the front to the back.
This is a standard recommendation, especially in women. Moving from the back to the front after using the restroom may pull bacteria from the rectal area to the urinary tract. It is suggested to go about it from the other way around.
It is vital to follow this advice if you are suffering from a gastrointestinal condition. The risk of contagion to a nearby region is heightened if one experiences diarrhea.
2: Drink Plenty of Water
Frequent urination helps the body to get rid of bacteria and fungi in the urinary tract. Therefore, it is advised to keep oneself hydrated throughout the day.
It is hard to determine precisely how much water one should drink in a day. Your activity levels, the external temperature, and your heredity all factor into it. It is usually suggested that people should drink between 6 and 8 glasses of liquids a day.
It might not be wise to consume anything other than water.
For instance, consuming alcohol or caffeinated drinks can increase inflammation in the bladder, making bladder infection symptoms worse.
Beverages that contain sodium can make you more dehydrated unless they are accompanied by the right amount of electrolytes, as found in sports drinks, in order to properly hydrate your body.
3: Sex
Having sex is a major contributor to urinary tract infections.
Sex can push bacteria and microorganisms that are normally found on the vaginal walls and the surrounding area into the urethra, causing a higher risk of developing a urinary tract infection.
What You Can Do About It
Pee within 15 minutes after intercourse to assist in cleaning out your urinary system.
Employing a remedy to forestall urinary tract infections after each sexual encounter may help reduce the chance of contracting an infection. Studies have demonstrated that a top-notch form of D-Mannose is useful in fighting off illnesses generated by E.coli, the most typical root of urinary tract infections. An alternative is to employ a natural antiseptic after sexual intercourse.
Inserting suppositories with Lactobacillus crispatus and using oral probiotics containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus fermentum may be helpful in rebalancing the microorganisms in the vagina. This could diminish the probability of developing yeast infections and urinary tract infections.
4: Sex With A UTI
Having intercourse can cause abrasion to a delicate urinary tract.
What You Can Do About It
Wait until your symptoms have stopped before having sex. This will provide an opportunity for your urinary tract to recover. Having a well-functioning urinary system helps guard against developing urinary tract infections.
5: New Sexual Partner
Reports from multiple sources suggest that certain females may acquire more urinary tract infections when they are with a particular sexual partner. This might be because of a higher level of intimate contact in a fresh partnership, or because of organisms that are unknown being introduced through sexual intercourse to the urethra.
In addition, it has been noted that men can harbor bacteria which can lead to UTIs, indicating that a woman can suffer from repeat infections.
What You Can Do About It
No matter how often one engages in sexual activities, regardless if it is frequently or sporadically, or if the partner is new, it is essential to practice the preventive measures mentioned above to avoid contracting a urinary tract infection.
If you have been having UTIs ever since you started a new relationship and it has been going on for a while, it might be a smart move to get yourself and your partner checked for any bacteria that could be causing the recurring UTIs. Figuring out ways to ward off UTI is essential for each person in a couple.
6: Diaphragm, (or Menstrual Discs/Cups) Use
These devices may put pressure on the urinary flow, which can then lead to a proliferation of bacteria that can cause infections. We have not been able to uncover any concrete proof regarding this matter, however there have been reports from parts of our group regarding it.
What You Can Do About It
If you think this might be causing you to get recurrent urinary tract infections, consider changing your birth control or menstrual item. Make sure the device is not being used for any longer than it has to be.
7: Latex Condoms and Spermicides
Some seem to correlate the use of condoms with developing urinary tract infections after intercourse, although there is no scientific evidence to back this up. This could be caused by the rubbing that takes place in the vagina during sexual activity. Inflammed tissue can nurture an atmosphere that facilitates the growth of germs causing infection.
Spermicides can cause a decrease in the presence of Lactobacilli (beneficial bacteria) as well as a higher vaginal pH, which can create an environment that sustains bacteria responsible for urinary tract infections.
What You Can Do About It
Consider making the switch to latex-free condoms along with using a lubricant that has a balanced pH level that suits your chemistry. If it is possible, you could also choose to drop using condoms altogether. It is clear that learning how to avoid UTI is necessary, but it is also a priority to prevent STI’s. Before deciding to switch to a different form of birth control, take some time to explore the rest of this section.
8: Contraceptive Pills
The contraceptive pill is intended to change the amount of estrogen and progesterone hormones in the body. It has been established that the amount of estrogen present in the vagina directly affects the bacterial environment. Any fluctuation in estrogen can alter the bacteria in the vaginal area in a way that might facilitate the growth of bacteria that can lead to infections.
What You Can Do About It
If it is feasible to cease taking the pill, you could attempt it. If it isn’t right for you, it would be beneficial to consult your physician about alternative pills. It is very important to emphasize that avoiding UTIs is a top priority for you.
Suppositories and medication containing beneficial bacteria that are taken orally have demonstrated potential for restoring the regularity of the bacteria found in the vagina, as well as reducing the possibility of contracting a yeast infection or urinary tract infection.
Seek out vaginal suppositories with Lactobacillus crispatus and oral probiotic capsules containing both Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus fermentum.
9: Soaps, Bubble Baths And Bath Oils
Chemicals can cause irritation in the vagina and urethra. They can affect the acidity levels in the vagina, which can cause an imbalance of organisms naturally found in the vagina, resulting in a higher chance of infection-causing organisms multiplying, and possibly journeying towards the urethra.
What You Can Do About It
Rather than soak in a tub, opt for a shower and make sure not to use any soaps with scents. Avoid using any soap around your vagina and urethra. Bear in mind that anything, even those labelled ‘natural’, is composed of chemicals. A natural product could also cause irritation. You may want to use a feminine wash that is specifically pH balanced and tailored to your biology. We’ve heard good feedback.
10: Tampons
Most tampons contain various chemical compounds, which are usually not mentioned on the product label. Introducing these chemicals into the vaginal area can lead to irritation and swelling. Substituting tampons can bring in microorganisms that can cause infections in the urethral area. In addition to this, the force of the tampon can impede the speed of urine flow, which could lead to a rise of unwelcome bacteria instead of a proper extraction.
What You Can Do About It
If you believe it could be an issue and you are able to not utilize tampons, then do so. If this is not possible, make an effort to find a company that does not use chemicals in the production process. Make sure that you fully soap up your hands prior to replacing tampons, and make every effort to fully empty your bladder whenever you get the urge to go to the bathroom. Getting acquainted with the proper ways to avert UTI may seem troublesome initially, but gradually introducing minor adjustments can have a major effect.
11: Douches And Intimate Sprays
Products such as douches, aerosols, and powders that are used for personal care near the genitals can cause irritation of the urethra. Cleaning the vagina with a douche can mess with the natural bacterial balance and change the normal acidity levels, potentially creating a more inviting atmosphere for bacteria that cause illness. A misconception of neatness may be present around certain behaviors, but they could actually be damaging attempts to stop urinary tract infections.
What You Can Do About It
No proof exists to back up douching and similar habits. It is strongly advised by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists to completely abstain from this activity. Allow the vagina to take care of itself; it is able to regulate itself and cleanse itself naturally.
When to See A Doctor
Visit your doctor if you detect urinary symptoms such as:
- A burning sensation when urinating
- A constant and strong urge to urinate
- Blood in your urine
- A strong smell in your urine
- Pelvic pain
The accompanying signs are evidence of urinary infections, and medical treatment should be sought after, particularly in the case of frequent urinary tract infections. A doctor could possibly provide different antibiotics, request a urine culture, and take other action.
Conclusion
It is important to seek medical guidance if you are experiencing a urinary infection. If you’re interested in avoiding a UTI, there are a few steps you can take at home to help lower your risk.
Using scented products to clean your genital area and wiping from back to front increases the likelihood of developing urinary tract infections.
Do not do that and take precautions when engaging in anal sex. Drink pure cranberry juice and take probiotics, make sure to drink plenty of water over the course of the day, and make sure not to postpone going to the bathroom.
Sticking to your doctor’s advice and maintaining regular contact with them will help you learn ways to avert a Urinary Tract Infection or inflammation of the bladder.
