A urinary tract infection can be very uncomfortable with its symptoms of frequent urination or burning with urination. There are some measures you can take to help prevent urinary tract infections:
- Drink at least six to eight glasses of water daily.
- Avoid long intervals between urination. Try to empty your bladder every three hours while you are awake, whether or not you feel an urge to.
- After intercourse, empty your bladder and drink a large glass of water.
- Seek prompt attention for excessive vaginal discharge or other signs of vaginal infection.
- Refrain from using any feminine hygiene spray, towelette or deoderized tampons or pads.
- Refrain from the use of bubble bath or other perfumed bath additives.
- After bowel movements, clean the area around the anus gently, wiping from front to back and never repeating with the same tissues. Soft, white, nonscented toilet paper is best.
- After urinating, dry the urethral opening and labia by gently blotting with soft, white, nonscented tissues or cotton balls. Do not rub.
- Avoid wearing pantyhose or tight slacks for prolonged periods of time. Try to wear 100% cotton underwear.
- Avoid wearing a wet bathing suit for prolonged periods of time.
- Symptoms of a bladder irritation may be aggravated by coffee, tea, alcohol, spices, citrus juices and carbonated beverages.
