Background
Most urinary tract infections or cystitis arise when pathogenic or bad bacteria gain access to the bladder through the urethra (water passage). These bacteria normally originate from the vaginal or perianal area. Rarely, infections in the bladder or kidneys can arise because of kidney stones or blockages to drainage of urine from the kidneys.
Prevention (general) of UTIs
- The most important aspect of prevention relates to adequate intake of fluid
- You should drink approximately 3 litres of clear fluids (water) per day
- This volume should be sufficient to make urine clear without any yellow discolouration
Natural Yogurt /Probiotics
The vagina is normally colonised by lactobacilli which is friendly or protective type of bacteria which prevents pathological or bad bacteria gaining access to the vagina. If however pathological or unfriendly bacteria become established in the vagina, they may be able to gain access to the urethra (water passage) and hence the bladder, and cause cystitis. Certain natural yogurt products such as Actimel or Yoplait Everybody which are commercially available contain probiotics or lactobacilli. These products when taken orally can help colonise the bacteria with friendly bacteria and prevent pathological bacteria from gaining access to the bladder.
General Hygiene Measures
It is probably advisable to avoid any showers or douches of the vaginal area as this will remove the protective lactobacilli. Furthermore soaps and detergents used near the urethra (water passage) can cause local irritation and allow bacteria to gain entry to the bladder and therefore should be avoided. As a simple measure wiping after bowel motions should be away from the water passage in order to prevent introducing bacteria towards the bladder.
Medical Treatment
In many cases a recommendation may be made to use a low dose of an antibiotic on a continuous basis in order to prevent the introduction of bacteria to the urinary tract. This type of therapy is not aimed at treating urinary tract infections but more so at preventing their development. The dose of antibiotics used in this setting is quite small and does not usually give rise to significant side effects. Treatment is usually given for 3-6 months.
Clothing - General Advise
Loose cool clothing will help prevent urinary tract infections. Tight clothing can trap moisture and promote bacterial growth and it is recommended that women wear cotton underwear which allows air to circulate and loose clothing.
Sexual Practices
Sexual intercourse can introduce bacteria through the urethra (water passage). Urinating immediately following sexual intercourse will help reduce the incidence of urinary tract infections.