How to Prevent Urinary tract infection in women?

Urinary tract infection or UTI is a nightmare turned reality for many women. It is the most common type of bacterial infection affecting 1 in every 2 women.

Around 40–50% of women experience urinary tract infection (UTI) at least once in their life and 20–30% of these face the tyranny of recurring UTI that comes back every 3–4 months.

UTIs mostly occur in the lower urinary tract — the bladder and the urethra. These can be prevented and treated easily. But in some rare cases, UTI may spread to the kidneys and ureters too. Such cases may have serious consequences.

In most cases, UTI is characterized by frequent urge to urinate, itching, and burning sensations. In some cases, women also report smelly urine and pain in the abdomen. Severe cases of UTI are marked by fever, chills, lethargy, and vomiting.

The mental agony of Urinary Tract Infections

Recently, a young college girl came to my clinic late in the evening. Her anxiety and shyness were palpable. She was babbling some words which reflected her embarrassment.

A few after consoling her, she was ready to open up.

It was her constant battle with UTI.

The burn and itch gave her a detour of hell. And the frequent recurrence of the infections even after treatment chained her to constant fear. She started to ignore her thirst to avoid the toilet during class.

Public toilets were also a no-no for her. Because of this she either snoozed nature’s call or avoided going out altogether. For this young girl, UTI was not just a physical problem but it has ingrained a deep emotional and mental trauma.

Also Read: Are you ignoring your Emotional Immunity?

She repeatedly told me that she never had sex and yet she got this curse. Most people tend to think UTI is either caused by sexual contact or bad hygiene.

But that’s not true. I explained to her that UTIs can result from a number of issues. It’s rarely the aftermath of sex. Deficiency in nutrition can also cause UTI. Birth control pills, pregnancy, or menopause can also cause UTI.

Also Read: What’s the right time for sex education in children?

Preventing UTI with Ayurveda

Popping antibiotics to control UTI can bring temporary relief. That’s why Ayurveda suggests simple natural ways to beat UTI. These are lifestyle and dietary changes which you can follow in your day-to-day life.

More than pills or medicines, UTI demands the right diet, hygiene, and care!

Here is what I advise for preventing Urinary Tract Infections.

Ayurvedic Doctor’s Dietary guideline for preventing UTI

• Drink plenty of liquids, especially water.
• Cooling juices like Sheetasudha or Sarsaparilla help a lot.
• Avoid sugar and sugar-ladened carbonated beverages.
• Eat healthy probiotics like yogurt.
• Add cranberry juice to your diet.
• Eat immune-boosting foods like Amla, lemon, orange, and other Vitamin C-rich foods.

Ayurvedic Doctor’s Hygiene Tips to Avoid Urinary Tract Infection

Wash from front to back after urinating

Washing from front to back after urinating or having a bowel movement helps to prevent the spread of bacteria from the anus to the urethra and genital area. This is important because the anus and rectum contain a high number of bacteria, including harmful strains that can cause infections if they reach the urethra or vaginal area. By washing from front to back, you reduce the risk of transferring these bacteria to the urethral opening or vaginal area, which can help to prevent urinary tract infections, vaginitis, and other types of infections. This is a simple and effective hygiene practice that can help to reduce the risk of genital and urinary tract infections in women.

Urinating after intercourse is a must

Urinating after intercourse can help to flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra during sexual activity. During intercourse, bacteria from the anus or genital area of either partner can be transferred to the urethra, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). By urinating after sex, you can help to flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra, reducing the risk of UTIs and other types of urinary tract infections. Additionally, urinating after sex can also help to remove any remaining semen from the urethra, which can also help to reduce the risk of UTIs and other types of infections. This is why it’s recommended to urinate after intercourse as part of a healthy hygiene routine to maintain urinary tract health.

Know the feminine hygiene products

Using feminine hygiene products such as tampons, sanitary pads, and menstrual cups can increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in some women. This is because these products can trap bacteria close to the urethral opening, making it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract and cause an infection. However, avoiding these products altogether is not necessary or practical for most women. Instead, it’s important to take measures to reduce the risk of UTIs when using these products, such as:

• Changing tampons and pads regularly, at least every 4-6 hours
• Wiping from front to back after using the toilet to avoid transferring bacteria from the anus to the urethra
• Urinating frequently and thoroughly after intercourse to flush out any bacteria
• Choosing breathable and moisture-wicking pads and panty liners to help keep the genital area dry
• Avoiding the use of powders, sprays, or deodorants in the genital area, as these can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and increase the risk of infections.

It’s also important to talk to your doctor if you have a history of UTIs, as they may be able to recommend additional measures to help prevent infections.

 Using birth control pills? consult your doctor

The use of birth control pills has been associated with an increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). This may be due to the changes in hormone levels and the altered vaginal flora caused by the pill, which can make it easier for bacteria to grow in the urinary tract. Women who experience frequent UTIs while on birth control pills may want to speak to their doctor about switching to a different form of contraception or taking preventive measures, such as wiping front to back after using the bathroom and drinking plenty of water.

Wash the genital area properly 

Washing the genital area properly can help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women by removing bacteria that can enter the urethra and cause an infection. It’s important to clean the area regularly, especially after using the bathroom or engaging in sexual activity. Here are some tips for proper genital hygiene:

• Wipe from front to back: After using the bathroom, always wipe from front to back to prevent the spread of bacteria from the anus to the urethra.
  
• Use soap and water: Wash the genital area with soap and water on a daily basis. Avoid using powders, deodorants, or scented products in the genital area.
  
• Urinate regularly: Urinating frequently helps flush bacteria from the bladder and can reduce the risk of UTIs. Try to empty your bladder fully every time you go.
  
• Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated can help flush bacteria from the bladder and reduce the risk of UTIs. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
  

By following these guidelines, you can help prevent UTIs and maintain good genital hygiene. If you experience symptoms of a UTI, such as pain or burning during urination, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, or frequent urination, seek medical attention promptly.

Wear comfortable cotton underwear

Wearing comfortable cotton underwear can help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women by keeping the genital area dry. Cotton underwear allows air to circulate and helps to wick moisture away from the skin, which can reduce the growth of bacteria. Synthetic materials, on the other hand, trap moisture and heat, creating a warm and moist environment that is conducive to the growth of bacteria.

In addition to wearing cotton underwear, it’s important to avoid tight clothing, especially tight pants or leggings, as they can trap moisture and heat against the skin. Opt for breathable clothing made from natural fibers and avoid wearing damp clothing for extended periods of time.

By keeping the genital area dry and promoting air circulation, you can reduce the risk of UTIs and maintain good genital hygiene. If you experience symptoms of a UTI, such as pain or burning during urination, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, or frequent urination, seek medical attention promptly.