A UTI or urinary tract infection, is a painful condition wherein the individual may experience a burning sensation while urinating, pain in the pelvic area, nausea, and even fever. You can manage the symptoms and get better by following certain lifestyle tips, along with taking the necessary medication. The below-mentioned lifestyle tips for UTI can help improve your bladder health and also keep the condition at bay. Let’s take a look at them.

1. Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is the number one lifestyle tip for UTI. This works as frequent urination helps flush the infection and prevents bacteria from sticking to the lining of your bladder. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day to manage this infection. Also, avoid alcohol, coffee, and carbonated sodas, which can irritate the bladder.

2. Do not hold your pee
No matter how busy you are, you should never hold your pee. The longer you hold your urine, the more time infection-causing organisms have to multiply in the bladder. This is also one of the important lifestyle tips for UTI and you should urinate when you get the urge.

3. Urinate after sex
To help flush bacteria from your urinary tract, you need to urinate right after sex. Any bacteria that have entered the urinary tract during sex will be pushed out through this.

4. Use a high-quality lubricant during sex
The vaginal dryness during sexual activity can irritate the tissue and create an environment that allows infection-causing organisms. Latex-free condoms or a water-based lubricant are a great option to protect the tissues in the genital area.

5. Consider other birth control methods
Certain types of birth control such as unlubricated condoms, diaphragms, and spermicide may contain harmful chemicals that can trigger UTI. Consult your doctor for other, safer methods of birth control to use.

6. Avoid using feminine products that contain chemicals
Chemicals in soaps, bubble baths, feminine hygiene sprays, or douches can cause irritation in the vagina and urethra. They can allow infection-causing organisms to grow and make their way to the urinary tract. Go for mild, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic feminine sprays and wipes for the vaginal area.

7. Wear comfortable undergarments and loose clothing
Cotton and other light fabrics should be preferred over rougher ones for your genital area. Also, avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing which can trap moisture, allowing the infection to develop. Loose clothing will allow better air circulation and reduce bacterial growth.

8. Change your undergarments daily
There is no substitute for good personal hygiene. It is vital for women to clean their vaginal area every day and ensure there is no dirt and sweat buildup. Any kind of frequent discharge must get looked at by the doctor. One should change your undergarments daily and also twice a day to prevent bacteria from around the anus to enter the urethra.

9. Wipe from front to back
Poor wiping habits can also cause bacteria from the vagina to easily get into the urethra. Especially after a bowel movement, women should wipe from front to back which will prevent bacteria to move in the urethra.

Ease your discomfort and adopt these lifestyle tips for UTI which will help manage and prevent the condition. Along with this, it is important to take your medications as prescribed by your doctor and adhere to the recommended diet