1. Urinate after Sex

Photo Credit: Bright Tal

During sex, tiny bits of bacteria can make their way into our urinary tracts, so my doctor says this is the best way to prevent a UTI. Urinating after sex flushes out those bacteria, and is key to preventing a painful urinary tract infection. It may not be the most romantic thing to do right after sex, but… it’s better than getting a UTI… and having to avoid sex for a week or so while you recover…

2. Wear Cotton Panties

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Cotton breathes, but some fabrics, like rayon and nylon, do not. My doctor recommends skipping the “fancy” underwear in favor of cotton panties… a quick check of the Victoria’s Secret website reveals, thankfully, that it’s completely possible to find sexy cotton underwear, so you won’t be forced to wear unattractive granny panties to avoid a UTI… whew!

3. Change out of Wet Swim Suits Right Away

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Wet swimsuits are another potential breeding ground for nasty UTI-causing bacteria… plus they’re uncomfortable! Always change out of a wet swim suits as soon as you’re done swimming.

4. Drink Plenty of Water

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In order to keep your urinary tract flushed, clean, and infection-free, you need to drink plenty of water. Drinking plenty of water will help you urinate regularly, and that’s the best way to flush these bacteria out.

5. Wipe Front to Back

Photo Credit: sugaree_gd (Kerrie)

When you’re using the bathroom, it’s important to wipe from your front to your back, and not the other way around, since wiping from the back will spread the germs and bacteria that are guaranteed to give you a nasty urinary tract infection. Yikes!

6. Drink Cranberry Juice

Photo Credit: HannyB

If you feel that little tingle that you know signals the beginning of a potential UTI, start drinking cranberry juice to help keep it at bay. Don’t go overboard, though… keep the cranberry juice to 16 ounces per day, or you might make it worse!

7. Don’t Use Bubbles in the Bath

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This is key, especially in preventing urinary tract infections in children. It’s still okay to indulge in a bubble bath once in a while, but the more you use the bubbles, the more the chemicals can irritate your tract, and cause an infection. Try to limit them to once or twice per month, and if you find you’re prone to infection, avoid them altogether.

Follow this advice from my doctor, and you ought to notice a sharp decrease in the number of times you have to go see your doctor to be treated for a urinary tract infection. But if you do notice symptoms, don’t delay in seeking treatment - it will only get worse until you get an antibiotic, and you might cause permanent damage! Do you have any other tips to share on preventing urinary tract infections? Please share them!

Top Photo Credit: M.Sheldrake