As the temperature rises during the summer, so does the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs).

UTIs are commonly caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract through the urethra, and can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including pain or a burning sensation when urinating, frequent urges to urinate, and abdominal pain. If left untreated, UTIs can also lead to more serious complications, such as kidney infections.

Stay Hydrated

One of the best things you can do to prevent UTIs during the summer is to stay hydrated. When you drink plenty of water, you help to flush bacteria out of your urinary tract, reducing the risk of infection.

Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day, and if you’re spending time outside in the sun or doing physical activity, drink even more to replace fluids lost through sweat.

Wear Breathable Clothing

During the summer months, it’s important to wear clothing that is light and breathable, especially when it comes to your underwear. Synthetic fabrics, like nylon or polyester, can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for bacteria.

Opt for underwear made of cotton, which is a breathable fabric that helps to wick away sweat and moisture from your body.

Avoid Holding Your Urine

Many people are guilty of holding their urine for long periods of time, whether they’re stuck in traffic or trying to avoid the public restroom. However, holding your urine can actually increase the risk of UTIs.

When urine stays in your bladder for too long, it can give bacteria more time to multiply and cause an infection. Make sure to use the restroom as soon as you feel the urge to urinate, and don’t hold it in for longer than you need to.

Wipe Front to Back

When you wipe after using the restroom, it’s important to always wipe from front to back. This helps to prevent bacteria from your anus from entering your urethra, which can cause a UTI.

Make sure to use a fresh piece of toilet paper for each wipe, and avoid using wipes or cleansers that contain perfumes or harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin.

Change Out of Wet Clothing

If you’re spending time at the beach or pool this summer, make sure to change out of wet swimsuits or clothing as soon as possible. Moisture can trap bacteria and create a breeding ground for infection.

Bring a change of clothing with you or pack a towel to dry off after swimming.

Urinate After Sex

Sex can also increase the risk of UTIs, especially in women. During sexual activity, bacteria from your partner’s skin or genitals can enter your urethra, causing an infection.

To reduce the risk of UTIs during the summer, make sure to urinate after sex to flush out any bacteria that may have entered your urinary tract.

Take Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help to promote the health of your gut and urinary tract.

Taking probiotics supplements or eating foods that are high in probiotics, like yogurt or kefir, can help to balance the bacteria in your urinary tract, reducing the risk of infection. Make sure to choose a probiotic supplement that is formulated specifically for urinary tract health.

Avoid Irritants

Summer can be a time of increased exposure to irritants, like harsh soaps or chemicals found in swimming pools. These ingredients can irritate the skin around your genitals, making it more susceptible to infection.

Choose mild, fragrance-free soaps and avoid using harsh chemicals in swimming pools. If you experience any symptoms of infection, like burning or itching, seek medical attention right away.

Conclusion

By following these simple tips, you can reduce your risk of UTIs during the summer months.

Stay hydrated, wear breathable clothing, avoid holding your urine, wipe from front to back, change out of wet clothing, urinate after sex, take probiotics, and avoid irritants. If you experience any symptoms of a UTI, like pain or burning while urinating or abdominal pain, seek medical advice right away.