How to Avoid a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Preventing UTIs involves simple lifestyle changes and hygiene practices. Staying hydrated and practicing proper hygiene are key strategies.

Hydration is Crucial: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water helps flush bacteria from your urinary tract. Mayo Clinic, WebMD, and the CDC all emphasize the importance of staying well-hydrated to prevent UTIs.
Urinate Frequently: Don't hold your urine for extended periods. Emptying your bladder regularly helps prevent bacteria from accumulating. This is advised by King Edward VII's Hospital and Healthline.
Hygiene Practices:
- Wipe front to back: This is especially important for women. Wiping from front to back helps prevent bacteria from the anal area from entering the urethra. This is highlighted by the Mayo Clinic, Nationwide Children's Hospital, and Healthline.
- Shower instead of bath: Baths can introduce bacteria into the urethra. Showers are generally preferred for better hygiene. This recommendation comes from the CDC and Mayo Clinic Health System.
- Avoid irritants: Minimize the use of douches, sprays, or powders in the genital area, as these can disrupt the natural balance and increase the risk of infection. This is suggested by the CDC.
Sexual Activity: Urinate before and after sexual intercourse to flush out bacteria that may have entered the urethra. This advice is given by the CDC, King Edward VII's Hospital, and Healthline.

Additional Tips:

Consider drinking cranberry juice, which some studies suggest may help prevent UTIs. (Note: This is not a replacement for the above measures.) Mayo Clinic mentions this as a potential preventative measure.