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Reducing Your Risk of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Reducing Your Risk of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

These steps may help lower the risk of UTIs:

Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking plenty of water may help flush bacteria from the urinary system.

Pass Urine After Having Sex

Drinking water after having sex can help flush bacteria that may have entered the urinary system.

Do Not Use Spermicides

Spermicides can rid the vagina of good bacteria. This can make it easier for bacteria to enter and cause infection.

Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking plenty of water may help flush bacteria from the urinary system.

Pass Urine After Having Sex

Drinking water after having sex can help flush bacteria that may have entered the urinary system.

Do Not Use Spermicides

Spermicides can rid the vagina of good bacteria. This can make it easier for bacteria to enter and cause infection.

Take a Shower

Sitting in bath water may cause irritation. This can raise the risk of infection. Perfumed products, bubble baths, douches, and feminine sprays should also be avoided.

Wipe From Front to Back

Women should wipe from front to back after passing urine or having a bowel movement. This will lower the risk of bacteria entering the urinary system.

Do Not Hold Urine

Pass urine when the urge is felt. Waiting to pass urine can cause bacteria to multiply in the bladder.

Wear Cotton Underwear

Cotton underwear is more absorbent than synthetic fibers. It also wicks moisture away from the skin. Nylon and polyester trap moisture. Moisture helps bacteria grow. This can lead to infection.

References

  • Bladder infection (urinary tract infection)—UTI) in adults. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/bladder-infection-uti-in-adults. Accessed March 30, 2022.
  • Introduction to urinary tract infections (UTIs). Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/genitourinary-disorders/urinary-tract-infections-utis/introduction-to-urinary-tract-infections-utis. Accessed March 30, 2022.
  • Uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI) (pyelonephritis and cystitis). EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/uncomplicated-urinary-tract-infection-uti-pyelonephritis-and-cystitis. Accessed March 30, 2022.
  • Urinary tract infections in adults. Urology Care Foundation website. Available at: https://www.urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/u/urinary-tract-infections-in-adults. Accessed March 30, 2022.

Contributors

  • Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
Last Updated:
2021-11-01

(C) Copyright 2022 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.