Urinary tract infections can be a painful and irritating condition that can prevent you from enjoying life. If you are a woman, you are more likely to develop a urinary tract infection than men. Although UTIs can be treated with antibiotics there are a few natural ways that you can adopt to prevent them in the first place. In this article, I’m going to share some simple and effective tips that can help you maintain good urinary tract health.
The Power of the Cranberry
Cranberries are known for their effectiveness in preventing UTIs. The Proanthocyanidin found in cranberries prevents bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urethra and bladder. According to research, drinking cranberry juice can reduce the risk of UTIs by up to 50%. If you suffer from frequent UTIs, incorporating cranberries into your diet could be extremely beneficial. You can eat them fresh, or frozen, or drink unsweetened cranberry juice.
Hygiene tips
Good hygiene is crucial when it comes to urinary tract health. Wiping from front to back after using the bathroom can help prevent the spread of bacteria from the anus to the urethra. You should also avoid using harsh soaps or perfumed products in the genital area. It’s essential to keep yourself clean and fresh, but over-cleansing can cause irritation and dryness. Many commercial soaps have fragrance and other chemicals that can cause pH imbalance. Natural soaps or hypoallergenic are preferred. Shave in the shower only, never in the bathtub. Rogue hairs can find their way into the urethra and cause problems.
Pelvic Floor Strengthening
If you suffer from chronic UTIs, pelvic floor exercises could be a natural way to strengthen the urinary tract muscles. These exercises involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles, which help to increase blood flow to the urinary tract. A stronger urinary tract can help to prevent bacteria from growing. You should consult with a medical professional to learn how to perform these exercises correctly and safely.
Urethral Stretching (see a Urologist)
There is a medical tool known as a sound. It is a small stainless steel tube that is graduated. This means that it is smaller on one end than the other and expands gradually. This can be sterilized and inserted very carefully into the urethra by a doctor. The idea is to create many micro tears so that the urethra itself stretches. This allows urine to pass more freely trapping less bacteria. (Never try this yourself).
Other natural helpers for urinary health
There are other natural methods that can help to improve urinary tract health. These include drinking plenty of water to flush out bacteria, avoiding caffeine and alcohol that can irritate your bladder, and taking probiotics to boost your immune system.
The Take Away
Taking care of your urinary tract health is essential for your overall well-being. Natural remedies can be very effective in preventing UTIs and reducing the frequency of chronic UTIs. Incorporating cranberries into your diet, practicing good hygiene, and urethral stretching exercises can help to keep your urinary tract healthy. However, if you experience persistent urinary tract infection symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention to avoid any complications.
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