Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are bacterial infections that affect the urinary tract organs, such as the urinary bladder and urethra. Although men are also susceptible, the condition is more prevalent among women. While UTIs can heal without medical intervention, it is advisable to see a doctor if the symptoms like burning, fever, and pelvic pain worsen. Before we discuss how to prevent UTIs, let us understand what triggers them in the first place.

What causes UTIs?
The most common cause of a UTI is the Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria found in the gastrointestinal tract, but it can also be caused by other bacteria. Sometimes, an infection of the urethra (urethritis) occurs when bacteria from the anus spread to the urethra. In women, STDs too can cause urethritis.

Those with a UTI usually complain of a frequent urge to urinate and a burning sensation when they do so. Smelly urine, blood in the urine, pelvis pain, and passing small amounts of urine frequently are the other signs.

How to prevent a UTI
The following are five effective and easy ways to prevent the condition:

1. Drink plenty of fluids
Since most UTIs affect the lower tract of the urinary system, it is necessary to drink sufficient water to flush out the harmful bacteria from the body. If one is not used to drinking a lot of water, they can go for fresh fruit juices, herbal tea, coconut water, cranberry juice, or smoothies made with fresh ingredients.

2. Urinate after intercourse
Sexual activity is known to increase the chances of developing a UTI, especially among women. Urinating before and after intercourse can help prevent the spread of bacteria into the urethra. One can also gently wash the genital area before and after intercourse to keep it clean.

3. Wipe from front to back
Wiping in a forward-to-backward direction after using the bathroom prevents the E.coli bacteria in the anus from spreading to the urinary tract through the urethra. Individuals should be more careful if they have diarrhea when it is impossible to control bowel movements.

4. Avoid feminine products
There are as many as 50 microbes in the vagina that help keep its pH level in check. Using feminine products can disrupt this balance and cause infections that can spread to the urinary tract.

5. Urinate when you feel the urge
It is recommended not to hold the urine for long in the bladder. Sometimes, there can be harmful bacteria in the urine, which can multiply if not emptied quickly. The symptoms show up only a few days later when the bacteria grows and infects the urinary tract.

While following these methods does not guarantee 100 percent immunity from a UTI, it reduces the risk considerably.