Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common among women, and approximately 60% of women will experience at least one UTI in their lifetime.

UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply, causing uncomfortable symptoms like pain, burning during urination, and frequent urination. While antibiotics are an effective treatment for UTIs, there are steps you can take to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Here are some effective tips for preventing urinary tract infections.

1. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is essential for flushing bacteria out of your urinary tract. Drinking water and other fluids can help you urinate more frequently, which helps to rid your body of bacteria that cause UTIs.

Aim to drink at least six to eight glasses of water per day, and limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol, which can irritate your bladder and increase your risk of developing a UTI.

2. Practice Good Hygiene

Good hygiene practices can go a long way towards preventing UTIs. Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom, as this helps to prevent bacteria from spreading from your anus to your urinary tract.

Avoid using harsh soaps and perfumes around your genital area, as these products can cause irritation and increase your risk of developing a UTI. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free soaps instead.

3. Urinate Frequently

Urinating frequently helps to prevent bacteria from building up in your urinary tract. Don’t hold in your urine for long periods, and try to empty your bladder completely each time you use the bathroom.

4. Wear Cotton Underwear

Cotton underwear is breathable and helps to prevent the buildup of moisture, which can encourage the growth of bacteria. Avoid wearing tight underwear or pants that trap moisture against your skin, as this can increase your risk of developing a UTI.

5. Take Probiotics

Probiotics are live bacteria that are beneficial to your body. Taking probiotics may help to prevent UTIs by increasing the number of beneficial bacteria in your urinary tract, which can help to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

Yogurt, kefir, and other fermented foods contain probiotics, but you can also take probiotic supplements if you prefer.

6. Practice Safe Sex

Practicing safe sex is important for preventing UTIs. Use a barrier method of contraception, such as a condom, to prevent the spread of bacteria during sex.

Urinate before and after sex, as this can help to flush out any bacteria that may have entered your urinary tract during intercourse.

7. Avoid Irritants

Avoiding irritants can help to prevent UTIs. Certain products, such as douches and feminine hygiene sprays, can irritate your genital area and increase your risk of developing a UTI.

Avoid using these products, and opt for gentle, fragrance-free soaps and laundry detergents instead.

8. Stay Healthy

Staying healthy can help to prevent UTIs. Get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly to keep your immune system strong. A strong immune system can help to fight off infections, including UTIs.

9. Consider Cranberry Supplements

Cranberry supplements contain compounds that may help to prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of your urinary tract.

Consider taking cranberry supplements if you are prone to UTIs, but talk to your doctor first to determine the appropriate dosage.

10. See Your Doctor

If you experience symptoms of a UTI, see your doctor right away. Early treatment can help to prevent the infection from spreading to your kidneys and causing more serious complications.

Your doctor can prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection and provide guidance on how to prevent future UTIs.