Urinary Tract Infection or UTI is a typical health situation that impacts tens of millions of individuals around the globe and it happens when micro organism enter the urinary tract, resulting in uncomfortable signs and potential problems. While UTIs are treatable, prevention is essential.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Ritu Sethi, Gynaecologist and Obstetrician – Director at The Aura Speciality Clinic in Gurgaon, shared, “Urinary Tract Infections can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life. However, by adopting simple yet effective do’s and don’ts, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing UTIs. Maintaining good hygiene practices, staying adequately hydrated, and urinating regularly are essential for preventing bacterial growth in the urinary tract. Additionally, taking precautions before and after sexual intercourse, wearing breathable undergarments and avoiding harsh hygiene products are crucial steps towards UTI prevention.”

She steered the next tips in order that people can cut back their threat of growing UTIs and promote higher urinary tract well being.

I. Do’s for UTI Prevention –

• Stay Hydrated: One of the best and simplest methods to forestall UTIs is by staying adequately hydrated. Drinking loads of water helps flush out micro organism from the urinary tract and dilutes urine, decreasing the chance of an infection. Always attempt to eat a minimum of eight glasses of water every day, or extra if you happen to have interaction in bodily actions or dwell in a scorching local weather.
• Maintain Good Hygiene: Practicing good private hygiene is essential in stopping UTIs. When utilizing the bathroom, all the time wipe from entrance to again to forestall micro organism from the anal space reaching the urethra. Additionally, guarantee common bathing or showering to maintain the genital space clear and free from micro organism.
• Empty the Bladder Regularly: Emptying the bladder recurrently is important to forestall micro organism from accumulating. Avoid holding urine for prolonged durations, as this permits micro organism to multiply. Urinate if you really feel the urge and guarantee full emptying of the bladder every time.
• Urinate Before and After Sexual Intercourse: Urinating earlier than and after sexual activity helps flush out micro organism which will have entered the urethra throughout sexual exercise. This observe is especially vital for girls, as their urethra is shorter and extra liable to bacterial entry. Additionally, working towards secure intercourse strategies can additional cut back the chance of UTIs.
• Wear Breathable Undergarments: Choose underwear product of breathable materials, resembling cotton, which permits air circulation and helps preserve the genital space dry. Avoid tight-fitting clothes and artificial supplies that entice moisture, because it creates an excellent atmosphere for bacterial progress.

II. Don’ts for UTI Prevention –

• Don’t Hold Urine for Too Long: Holding urine for extended durations can result in urinary stasis, the place urine stays stagnant within the bladder, permitting micro organism to multiply. Make it a behavior to empty your bladder if you really feel the urge to urinate and keep away from delaying restroom visits.
• Don’t Use Harsh Personal Hygiene Products: Avoid utilizing harsh soaps, douches, or scented merchandise within the genital space. These merchandise can disrupt the pure steadiness of micro organism and irritate the urethra, rising the chance of UTIs. Instead, go for delicate, fragrance-free cleansers and keep away from extreme washing or scrubbing.
• Don’t Use Irritating Contraceptive Methods: Certain contraceptive strategies, resembling spermicides or diaphragms, can improve the chance of UTIs by irritating the urinary tract. If you’re liable to UTIs, take into account various contraceptive choices or seek the advice of your healthcare supplier for steerage on the only option for you.
• Don’t Hold Back from Urinating After Sexual Intercourse: Refrain from delaying urination after sexual activity. It is important to promptly flush out any micro organism which will have entered the urinary tract throughout sexual exercise. Urinating inside half-hour of intercourse can considerably cut back the chance of UTIs.
• Don’t Overdo Antibiotic Use: While antibiotics are important for treating UTIs, their extreme and pointless use can contribute to antibiotic resistance. Avoid self-medication and all the time seek the advice of a healthcare skilled for correct prognosis and therapy. They will prescribe probably the most applicable antibiotic based mostly on the particular micro organism inflicting the an infection.

Dr Ritu Sethi concluded, “Remember, prevention is always better than cure. By following these guidelines, you can minimise the chances of developing UTIs and promote better urinary tract health. If you do experience symptoms such as pain, frequent urination, or cloudy urine, it is important to seek medical advice promptly for proper diagnosis and treatment. With proper care and attention, you can safeguard your urinary tract and maintain overall well-being.”