Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Prevention

Noted Female Urologist Offers Top 10 Tips to Prevent a UTI

Edison, NJ (PRWEB) November 6, 2008-- According to a survey conducted by Harris Interactive® for Cystex® Urinary Pain Relief Tablets (http://www.cystex.com/Pages/About%20Cystex), almost 6 out of 10 women indicate they have suffered from at least one urinary tract infection (UTI).

"UTIs are the second most common infection in the body accounting for more than eight million visits to doctors annually," says Elizabeth Kavaler, M.D., urologist and author of A Seat on the Aisle, Please! The Essential Guide to Urinary Tract Problems in Women (Copernicus Books, 2006). "However, there are easy ways to help prevent the situations that can cause UTI infections."

Dr. Kavaler offers her tips:

1.Stay Hydrated: UTIs do not occur when bacteria gets into the bladder, they occur when it does not get out. Drinking at least eight glasses of water per day promotes regular urination which helps flush out bacteria in the urinary tract.

2.Protect Your Back: Lower back stress (http://www.cystex.com/Pages/Back%20Strain%20and%20UTI%27s) that can impact muscles and nerves can actually affect the flow of urine, which can lead to abnormal voiding (urination) and UTIs. If you suspect a back problem may be contributing to your UTIs, ask your doctor for a "uroflow" exam to assess whether or not you are voiding effectively.

3.Take a Vitamin C Supplement: Take about 1,000 milligrams of vitamin C throughout the day to help inhibit the growth of some bacteria by acidifying the urine.

4.Avoid Feminine Hygiene Sprays and Scented Douches: They can irritate the urethra causing an inflammation that can promote urinary bacteria.

5.Respond to "Nature's Call": Urinate as soon as you feel the need to in order to eliminate unwanted bacteria. While "holding it in" does not directly cause an infection, it can cause overdistension that can damage the lining of the bladder, making it more vulnerable to bacteria.

6.Wear Cotton Undies: Opt for panties with a cotton crotch since cotton fabric allows moisture to escape while other fabrics trap moisture (which bacteria thrives on).

7.Wipe From Front to Back: After a bowel movement or voiding, always wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from the anus from entering the vagina or urethra.

8.Take Showers Instead of Baths: Avoid exposing your urethra to stagnant water which predisposes you to a urinary tract infection.

9.Proper Washing: Wash your genital area before and after sexual intercourse to help prevent transferring bacteria to the urethra or vaginal area which can create a breeding ground for a UTI.

10.Take an Antibacterial: Women who have recurrent UTIs (http://www.cystex.com/Pages/Recurrent%20Urinary%20Tract%20Infections%20%28UTIs%29) might consider taking Cystex® as a preventative as it contains methenamine, an antibacterial agent that helps prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract. Cystex® (http://www.cystex.com) can be taken before activities or situations that you believe have contributed to urinary tract infections.

For more information on Cystex®, as well as other important information about urinary tract infection prevention and care, visit www.cystex.com.

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