Urinary tract infection or UTI is a common ailment that can affect anyone, but is more common in women. It is caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract and infecting the urethra, bladder, or kidneys.

Symptoms of UTI include a strong and frequent urge to urinate, pain or burning sensation while urinating, cloudy, dark, or foul-smelling urine, and pressure or pain in the lower abdomen.

Causes of Urinary Tract Infection

There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing urinary tract infection. These include:.

Gender: Women are more prone to UTI than men, partly due to the shorter urethra in women that makes it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder.
Pregnancy: Changes in hormone levels during pregnancy can increase the risk of UTI.
Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can make it easier for bacteria to grow and cause infection in the urinary tract.
Sexual activity: Sexual intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract.
Urinary catheter: People who use urinary catheters are at higher risk of UTI.

Natural Remedies to Try

While antibiotics are the standard treatment for UTI, there are several natural remedies that can help relieve symptoms and prevent recurrence.

1. Drink Plenty of Fluids

Drinking plenty of water and other fluids can help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract and reduce the risk of UTI. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily.

2. Urinate Frequently and Completely

Don’t hold your urine for too long, and make sure to empty your bladder completely each time you urinate. This helps prevent bacteria from multiplying and causing infection.

3. Cranberry Juice

Cranberry juice or cranberry supplements have been shown to help prevent UTI by preventing bacteria from attaching to the walls of the urinary tract. However, it is important to choose unsweetened cranberry juice or supplements.

4. D-Mannose

D-mannose is a type of sugar that can be found in some fruits and vegetables, and it has been shown to help prevent UTI by preventing bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract. D-mannose supplements are available in health food stores.

5. Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can promote a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut and urinary tract. Consuming probiotics through foods such as yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables or taking probiotic supplements may help prevent UTI.

6. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can boost the immune system and prevent bacterial growth. Consuming vitamin C-rich foods such as citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes, and broccoli or taking vitamin C supplements can help prevent UTI.

7. Essential Oils

Some essential oils, such as tea tree, oregano, and thyme oils, have antibacterial properties that can help prevent UTI.

Dilute a few drops of essential oil in a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, and apply topically to the lower abdomen or add a few drops to a warm bath.

8. Warm Compress

Applying a warm compress to the lower abdomen can help relieve pain and discomfort caused by UTI. Use a heating pad or a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel, and apply for 15-20 minutes at a time.

9. Avoid Irritants

Avoid irritants such as perfumes, bubble baths, and feminine hygiene sprays that can irritate the urinary tract and increase the risk of infection.

10. Practice Good Hygiene

Wiping from front to back after urinating or bowel movement can help prevent bacteria from the anus from entering the urinary tract. Urinating before and after sexual activity can also help flush out bacteria.