Summer is here, and with it comes the heat, pool days, and unfortunately, an uptick in urinary tract infections (UTIs) for many women. This Summer, like every Summer I’ve had a lot of women ask about what to use to treat urinary tract infections. UTIs can be incredibly annoying and disruptive, so knowing how to stop them before they start is key.
I used to struggle with frequent UTIs myself, but once I figured out how to prevent them, I haven’t had one in over a decade!
If you’re tired of dealing with these pesky infections, here are some tried-and-true tips to keep your urinary tract healthy this Summer and beyond.
Top Tips for Preventing UTIs
- Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent UTIs. Drinking water helps flush out bacteria from your bladder, lowering the risk of infection. Aim to drink at least half your body weight in ounces of water daily. For example, if you weigh 120 pounds, aim for 60 ounces of water a day. - Take a Cranberry Supplement or Drink Cranberry Juice
Cranberries contain compounds that may prevent bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract lining. Consider taking a daily cranberry supplement or drinking a glass of unsweetened cranberry juice as part of your routine. - Urinate After Sex
Sexual activity can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, so it’s important to urinate and clean your genitals after intercourse. This helps flush out any bacteria before it has a chance to cause problems. - Wipe Front to Back
Ladies, always wipe front to back after using the restroom. This simple habit prevents bacteria from the rectal area from being introduced into the urinary tract. - Wear Breathable Underwear
Opt for 100% cotton underwear fabrics as it allows airflow and reduces moisture. Avoid tight-fitting pants and synthetic fabrics, as they can trap heat and moisture, creating an environment where bacteria thrive. - Avoid Holding Your Urine
When you feel the urge to urinate, don’t hold it in. Emptying your bladder regularly helps prevent bacteria from building up and causing an infection. - Choose the Right Feminine Products
Avoid scented feminine hygiene products like sprays, douches, or scented pads and tampons, as these can irritate the urinary tract and disrupt your natural balance. - Take Probiotics
Probiotics can promote a healthy balance of bacteria in your body, including the urinary tract. Look for probiotic supplements that specifically target urinary health or include fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut in your diet. - Stay Cool and Dry
After swimming or sweating, change out of wet or damp clothes as soon as possible. Prolonged exposure to moisture can encourage bacterial growth, increasing the risk of infection. - Manage Blood Sugar Levels
If you have diabetes, keeping your blood sugar levels under control can reduce your risk of developing UTIs. High blood sugar levels can encourage bacterial growth in the urinary tract.
What to Do If You Get a UTI
Despite your best efforts, you might still get a UTI. If that happens, here’s how you can ease the symptoms while waiting to see your doctor:
- Use AZO (Phenazopyridine)
AZO is an over-the-counter medication that can relieve the burning, urgency, frequency, and pain associated with UTIs. However, it’s important to note that AZO is NOT an antibiotic and won’t treat the underlying infection. You should still see your doctor within a couple of days for appropriate treatment. Also, be aware that AZO can temporarily change the color of your urine to bright orange —don’t be alarmed; this is normal and will resolve once the medication is cleared from your body.
- Stay Hydrated
Keep drinking plenty of water to help flush out bacteria and dilute your urine, which can reduce irritation.
Preventing UTIs is all about maintaining healthy habits and being mindful of your body. By staying hydrated, practicing good hygiene, and making small changes to your routine, you can enjoy a UTI-free summer. If you do experience symptoms, don’t wait to see your doctor—a quick course of antibiotics can get you back to feeling your best in no time.
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