Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are often caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra (a tube that carries urine out of the body). The urethra in women is shorter compared to men, leading to an increase in chances for bacteria to enter the bladder or kidneys and cause an infection.
There are several ways for bacteria to enter the bladder. Being pregnant, weakened immune system and insufficient fluid intake are all possible causes of bacteria invasion. Not keeping the genital area clean and dry also increases the chance of developing a bladder infection too. There are some conditions whereby kidney stones would cause blockage in the urinary tract and accumulate a large number of bacteria in the system.
"How do I know if I have UTI?"
Urinary tract infections can cause symptoms such as painful urination, frequent urination at night, and the constant need to go to the bathroom. Cloudiness or blood in the urine may be present, as well as lower abdominal pain or pain just under the ribs; some people may also feel hot and shivery with a high temperature (fever).
All in all, it can be very painful when UTI occurs!
"How do I prevent UTIs?"
There are some things that you can try to prevent urinary tract infection (UTI) from happening and returning.
Other ways to prevent UTIs from coming back.
If you have been experiencing recurring bladder infections, there is evidence that suggests taking these would help (Rădulescu et al., 2020) :
D-Mannose – a type of sugar found naturally in fruits that effectively manages UTI where it is able to hinder the bacteria adhesion. You can buy it as a powder or tablets to take every day.
Cranberry – A natural defender of UTI, it helps to prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall. You can find cranberry products available in juice, tablets, or capsules to take every day.
Speak to your doctor before taking any of these during pregnancy. Rădulescu, D. (2020, October). Combination of cranberry extract and D-mannose - possible enhancer of uropathogen sensitivity to antibiotics in acute therapy of urinary tract infections: Results of a pilot study. Experimental and therapeutic medicine. Retrieved March 10, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7465228/#b10-etm-0-0-8970
