Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common types of infections, accounting for at least 8 million visits to health care providers each year.

While UTIs can affect any part of the urinary system, the bladder and urethra are the most commonly affected areas. UTIs can cause pain, discomfort, and a burning sensation during urination. They can also lead to more serious complications if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to keep your urinary tract healthy.

1. Hydrate regularly

Drinking enough water is essential to maintaining a healthy urinary tract. When you drink plenty of fluids, you help flush out bacteria and other harmful microorganisms that can cause UTIs. Aim for 8-10 glasses of water a day.

You can also try drinking unsweetened cranberry juice, which can help prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder walls.

2. Practice good hygiene

Practicing good hygiene is essential to preventing UTIs. Make sure to wipe from front to back after using the bathroom, as this helps prevent bacteria from entering the urethra.

You should also shower or bathe regularly and wear clean, breathable underwear. Avoid irritating feminine care products, such as douches and powders, which can upset normal bacterial balance and increase the risk of infection.

3. Urinate frequently

One of the best ways to prevent UTIs is to urinate frequently. Holding your urine for long periods of time can lead to bacterial growth and infection.

Make sure to empty your bladder completely when you urinate, as this helps remove any lingering bacteria. If you feel the urge to urinate, don’t wait. Make sure to go as soon as possible.

4. Consider probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help promote digestive and immune health. Studies have shown that taking probiotic supplements or eating probiotic-rich foods, such as yogurt and kefir, can help prevent UTIs.

Probiotics work by restoring healthy bacteria to the gut and vaginal flora, which in turn helps prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the urinary tract.

5. Take precautions during sexual activity

Sexual activity can increase the risk of UTIs, particularly in women. Make sure to practice safe sex by using condoms to prevent the transmission of bacteria and other microorganisms.

Urinating before and after sex can also help flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urinary tract.

6. Avoid irritating substances

Avoid irritating substances that can cause inflammation and irritation in the urinary tract. These include spicy foods, acidic foods and drinks, alcohol, and caffeine.

If you do consume these substances, make sure to drink plenty of water to help flush them out.

7. Don’t hold in bowel movements

Holding in bowel movements can put pressure on the bladder and increase the risk of bacterial growth and infection. Make sure to respond promptly to the urge to have a bowel movement, and make sure to practice good hygiene after using the bathroom.

8. Keep diabetes under control

Diabetes can increase the risk of UTIs by weakening the immune system and creating a favorable environment for bacterial growth.

If you have diabetes, make sure to keep your blood sugar levels under control and work with your health care provider to manage your condition effectively.

9. See your healthcare provider regularly

Make sure to see your health care provider regularly and talk to them about any questions or concerns you may have about your urinary tract health.

Your provider can perform tests and recommend treatments or preventative measures to help keep your urinary tract healthy.

10. Know the signs of a UTI

Knowing the signs of a UTI can help you catch and treat it early. Symptoms of a UTI include:.

Pain or burning during urination
Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
Frequent urination
Low-grade fever or chills
Feeling tired or shaky
Pain or pressure in the lower abdomen or back

If you experience any of these symptoms, make sure to see your health care provider right away. UTIs can usually be treated effectively with antibiotics, but they can lead to more serious complications if left untreated.