Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in both men and women. However, they affect women more often than men.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply. This can cause various symptoms such as a burning sensation during urination, frequent urge to urinate, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, nausea, fever, among others. The good news is that there are measures you can take to prevent UTIs from occurring.

In this article, we share five tips for a trouble-free urinary system.

Tip 1: Stay hydrated

Drinking water is essential to keeping your urinary tract healthy. When you drink water, it flushes out bacteria and prevents it from accumulating in the bladder.

According to the Institute of Medicine, men should drink about 3.7 liters of fluids daily, while women should drink about 2.7 liters of fluids per day. Additionally, you should consider drinking cranberry juice, which can help to prevent UTIs. Cranberry juice contains compounds that prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder walls, which reduces the risk of developing a UTI.

Tip 2: Practice good hygiene

Practicing good health habits can help prevent UTIs. After using the toilet, always wipe from front to back. This ensures that fecal bacteria do not enter the urethra.

Also, avoid using harsh soaps and scented feminine products, as they can irritate your genitals and increase your risk of developing a UTI. Instead, use mild soaps and unscented products. Additionally, make sure to change your tampons or pads frequently during your periods and use your menstrual cups for no longer than 12 hours.

Tip 3: Empty your bladder frequently

One of the ways to prevent UTIs is by emptying your bladder frequently. Holding urine in your bladder for an extended period can cause bacteria to multiply and cause an infection.

For this reason, make sure you urinate frequently, and when you do, ensure that you empty your bladder completely.

Tip 4: Wear comfortable clothing

If you wear tight clothing, it can create a moist and warm environment, which bacteria love. Try to wear loose and comfortable breezy clothing that allows your skin to breathe. This will help you to stay dry and prevent UTIs from occurring.

Tip 5: Boost your immune system

Your immunity plays a critical role in preventing UTIs. If your immune system is weak, it becomes susceptible to infections of all kinds, including UTIs. To boost your immunity, make sure you eat a balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals.

Also, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and avoid stress. By doing these things, you can strengthen your immune system, which reduces your risk of developing a UTI.

Conclusion

UTIs can be uncomfortable, and they can interfere with your daily life. However, by taking the preventive measures outlined in this article, you can maintain a healthy urinary system and reduce your risk of developing a UTI.

Remember to stay hydrated, practice good hygiene, empty your bladder frequently, wear comfortable clothing, and boost your immune system. By doing so, you can keep your urinary tract healthy and avoid the discomfort that comes with UTIs.