Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are much more common than most people think, especially in women who are sexually active, menopausal, and post-menopausal. Some women mistake this condition for yeast infections, or sometimes kidney stones—but a quick visit to the doctor is usually enough to confirm an infection with a UTI. Once you’ve had one, it’s also more likely you’ll develop another in time, with some women dealing with infections two or three times a year.
Most UTIs are known as cystitis, caused by a bacterial infection such as E. coli. This infection can easily occur through unhygienic use of toilet tissue—women should be careful to wipe from front to back, so as to avoid the spread of bacteria towards the urethra. It can cause frequent urination with a burning sensation, as well as pain, pressure and irritation. The situation is a little more serious if accompanied by fever or chills, so it’s worth paying attention to your general wellbeing if you start to notice symptoms. See a doctor immediately if you’re pregnant or immunocompromised with symptoms such as these.
UTIs are usually treatable with antibiotics, but this strategy isn’t one that can be used repeatedly, as it can negatively affect your natural gut biome. It’s fortunate that there are other treatment options available. Your best approach is to make sure your immune system is healthy, and to take measures to ensure a balanced gut and vaginal biome, which in combination blocks the ability of bacteria to establish an infection in the urinary tract.
Good sexual hygiene is very important in preventing infection. Urination after intercourse can help clear the urethra and reduce the risk of bacterial migration to the bladder. It’s advisable too to avoid lubricants and other sexual health products if they tend to result in irritation and other discomforts.
Frequent UTI sufferers should also consider having a physical check to ensure there’s no problem with bladder function. A physician can also provide sound medical advice to help balance your immune system via good nutrition, sleep patterns and management of stress.
There are a few other steps you can take that may help in reducing the occurrence of UTIs:
Take probiotics
Lactobacillus probiotic supplements, such as those found in yoghurts, naturally inhibit the spread of harmful bacteria such as E. coli.
Perform regular pelvic exercises
Pelvic floor muscles can easily weaken without exercise, and can become lax after birth or menopause. A regular workout can help keep these muscles more elastic and protect the health of the bladder area.
Avoid dietary irritants
Stay away from excessive sugar, coffee, alcohol, and acidic fruits.
Drink plenty of water
Regularly taking fluids helps to avoid both bladder infections and kidney stones.
Wear cotton
Cotton underwear keeps the vaginal area dry and comfortable, while cotton-based menstrual products are best for preventing irritation—change them regularly.
Stay clean
Use toilet tissue correctly, wiping from front to back, and avoid lubricants or products that can alter pH and affect the vaginal microbiome.
Don’t hold back
Excuse yourself to the ladies’ room whenever you need. It’s not healthy to hold urine in the bladder for overly long periods. Be sure to urinate after sexual intercourse.
Use supplements
Key supplements such as D-mannose and cranberry are particularly effective in reducing the risk of urinary infections.
If you’re concerned about urinary tract infections or similar irritating conditions, book an appointment at Raffles Medical today to consult with our obstetrics and gynaecology specialist Dr. Nguyen Thi Hong Anh. Dr. Hong Anh offers comprehensive healthcare across the female lifespan—from teenagers to menopausal stage—and is also a strong proponent of healthy lifestyles and a healthy mindset for women.
