How to prevent a urinary tract infection premenapausal and beyond

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I have had my fair share of UTI’s and they are miserable! I get the kind where there is so much pain, the kind of pain where you are gripping the side of the sink every time you have to urinate. They can be miserable. I thought it would be great to share some tips on how how to prevent a urinary tract infection.

I hate to admit it but I’m getting older. I haven’t went through menopause yet but it won’t be long and I know the next 5 years will bring many changes to my life!

UTIs are actually very common among perimenopausal or menopausal women, with more than half (53%) of women over 55 experiencing recurring UTIs (at least three UTIs over 12 months). Women entering perimenopause or menopause are more susceptible to UTIs because a decrease in estrogen production leads to changes in the urinary tract that make it more vulnerable to infection.

While infections in your urinary tract are not 100% avoidable, here are some tips to help reduce the likelihood of contracting a UTI:

Drink lots of water: One of the best ways to prevent a UTI is to urinate frequently so that as much bacteria as possible can be flushed out of your!system.The best way to urinate frequently is to drink lots of water.

Wipe front to back – Remember when!your parents taught you to wipe from front to back after you go to the bathroom? Think of this! as the golden rule of UTIs– that bacteria from the anal region does not belong around the vagina and urethra.

Avoid irritating products – Some feminine products, such as deodorant sprays, douches, and powders, can irritate the urethra and trigger a UTI. Also,certain types of birth control– like diaphragms and spermicidal agents– can increase the risk of infection. Try to stick with none scented items if you must and mild soaps!

Urinate after sex – I know this is not always easy, sometimes you just want to doze off and rest but this really does help cut back on infection and is well worth the time and effort it takes!

Cotton will keep you dry – Bacteria that cause UTIs flourish in warm, moist environments. Underwear made from synthetic materials, such as nylon, polyester, or spandex, restricts airflow to the genitals. Cotton,on the other hand,is porous and keeps the genitals dry.

Go when you need to go – Holding it is never good. Not only is it uncomfortable, but it can also make it easier for bacteria to multiply in your urinary tract.

Get some cranberry in your diet – There are debates whether or not cranberries really help fight off urinary infections but I think there is enough evidence to show it can’t help. If you can’t get the actual berries or juice you can take them by tablets.

There will be times that no matter what you do a UTI will appear! When this happens you need relief right away and although UTIs must be treated with a prescription antibiotic, you can seek relief as soon as you begin to experience symptoms and think you have a UTI with something like pain relief tablets or a hot bath. Make sure you do see your doctor if you even suspect a UTI because without treatment it can get quite serious and go to your kidneys. It is nothing to mess around with.

I’m not a doctor or a medical professional, please always consult your doctor!