A Urinary tract infection, commonly known as UTI is the infection occurring in the urinary system. It could spread to the parts like bladder, urethra, bladder, ureters, kidneys, and urinary organs in men. When you suffer from this condition, you may experience pain while urinating, tenderness above the bladder area, urgency and frequency of urination and more.
Both men and women are at a high risk of developing urinary tract infections; however, the condition is more common in men than women as they have a shorter urethra that allows bacteria to enter the organ and bladder more easily. The urethral opening of women is closer to the anus—it is the place where most UTI-causing E.coli bacteria are found. There are many other risk factors that multiply the occurrence or development of urinary tract infections, including the following:
- Frequent sexual activity when you already have an infection
- Having sex with new partners
- Some types of birth control
- Menopause.
The risk factors of this condition in men and women include a weakened immune system, abnormalities in the urinary tract, blockages in the urinary tract, such as kidney stones or enlarged prostate, the use of a catheter, and urinary surgery. Always be watchful about the symptoms of the condition and reach out to a doctor if you are on the higher side of developing the infection.
How to Prevent UTI in Men
If you experience the symptoms of this condition, the doctor will prescribe you some medication and topical treatment. It would be fair if you took all the preventive measures to keep this problem from occurring in the first place.
Pee Before and After Intercourse
Urination helps in clearing bacteria out of the urethra. Thus, if you indulge in sexual intercourse with your partner, ensure to pee before and after it so that the bacteria can be eliminated.
Practice Good Hygiene
Nothing beats maintaining good hygiene. When you take proper measures to practice good hygiene, there is no chance you will get the infection. Bathe your genitals with soap or an intimate wash regularly to minimise the growth or colonisation of the bacteria. Change your underwear daily to keep the area clean and dry.
Do not use Spermicidal Lubricants
Although it is safe to use lubricants during sexual intercourse, they may act as vessels to harbour the bacteria. If possible, avoid using them too frequently in your sexual activities.
Clean Catheters
If you use a catheter to empty your bladder, it is vital to follow all the cleaning and sterilisation practices to avoid the onset of infection.
Treat Blockages of the Urethra
If your urinary tract infection is caused by kidney stones, structural abnormality, or BPH, reach out to the urologist for the treatment. They will give a proper solution to address the blockages and prevent future infections.
How to Prevent UTI in Women?
As stated, women are at a higher risk of developing urinary tract infection. Therefore, it is important for them to take extra measures to prevent this problem from happening. Here are the tips to follow.
Maintain Hygiene
Maintaining hygiene is the key to prevent any kind of urinary tract infection and other problems. As a woman, there are many things to take care of while maintaining urinary hygiene. For instance, choose sanitary pads instead of tampons as the latter multiply the occurrence of infection. Change your sanitary pad frequently, at least 6 hours after using it.
While you may be taking care of your urinary system, do not go overboard and use douche, feminine hygiene sprays, or powders. These products contain perfume that may irritate your genital area, causing itching, inflammation, and other problems. Take showers without bath oils and keep your genital area clean by wiping it from front to back after using the bathroom. Just like men, you should also urinate before and after sexual activity.
Wear Loose Clothes
Urinary tract infections in women may also be caused because of sweat or frequent friction of the skin with each other when there is already a build-up of moisture. To avoid that, do not wear tight-fitting panties. Choose cotton panties to make that area more breathable.
Take Care of your Diet
Besides good hygiene, it is essential to take care of your diet to maintain your immunity. Drink plenty of water (2-4 litres) each day, but do not drink fluids that irritate the bladder. Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeine.
Other Measures
Some women may be prone to recurrent urinary tract infections. To counter this, the doctor will prescribe a vaginal oestrogen cream, especially during your menopause. You may also be given a single dose of an antibiotic after sexual contact. Follow the medication by the doctor until otherwise suggested to stop.
Takeaway
Prevention is always better than cure. Regardless of your gender, it is vital to follow these measures to keep yourself healthy and fit.
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