Keep Getting UTIs? Here’s How to Keep Them at Bay
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be a real pain in the urethra – constantly needing to pee but not being able to (or experiencing pain and/or bleeding when you do!) can make life a struggle. And if they’re something you get frequently, you’re probably fed up.
Weekly trips to the doctors and repeatedly having to buy antibiotics can be expensive and time-consuming – though if you do need help, make sure you get it. It is important that your doctor determines whether your symptoms are due to a UTI or another medical condition so that you can receive proper treatment.
UTIs are incredibly common in women due to the nature of the female anatomy, with around 50-60% experiencing at least one in their lifetime. If not promptly treated, the bacteria can spread to the kidneys and turn into a kidney infection. If you believe you may be suffering from a UTI, do not fret as you can quickly and conveniently organise a UTI test with your local GP or an online practitioner.
Thankfully, there are steps you can take to reduce the frequency of UTIs.
Pee regularly
When urine stays in your bladder for too long it allows bacteria to grow and potentially lead to a UTI. Emptying the bladder as frequently and completely as possible is a good way to prevent the build-up of bacteria. You can do this by drinking lots of water, peeing when you need to (rather than holding on) and peeing after sex (to flush out any bacteria that may have entered your system).
Assess your birth control options
Spermicides and unlubricated condoms can irritate the vagina, resulting in pH changes that can allow bad bacteria to thrive, leading to – you guessed it – a UTI. Diaphragms may also heighten UTI risk due to the device’s structure which makes it hard to completely empty your bladder. Consider trying a different birth control method to prevent UTIs.
Take cranberry
Cranberry is backed by science as an effective way to prevent UTIs. This is due to an active ingredient that stops the adherence of bacteria to the wall of the bladder. While cranberry won’t treat the symptoms, it’s worth using as a preventative measure to stop UTIs if you get them often. Try cranberry juice, powder or tablets.
Try fragrance-free products
For some people, scented intimate products can irritate the urethra and increase the odds of developing a UTI. If you have tried other preventative measures and haven’t noticed any improvements, try opting for fragrance-free products to see if they make a difference.
Keflex antibiotics
If you have contracted a UTI, it is important that you seek treatment as soon as possible. Keflex antibiotics are often prescribed by doctors as a suitable treatment. You can take the medication in either liquid or capsule form; however, you must ensure that you keep taking the drug until your doctor says it is ok to stop. Stopping prematurely can cause the infection to return.
Want to find out more about UTIs? Best you speak to a doctor. Download the Instant Consult app and request a consult – you’ll be connected within minutes.
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