Is it caused by having sex? How about wearing a wet bathing suit? Does drinking cranberry juice help? Washington University primary care specialist Kirsten Brandt, MD, takes a closer look at what is fact and what is fiction when it comes to causes, prevention and treatment for this very common type of infection.
Even though bacteria are present in the human body all the time, there are some things that people do that can increase the chance bacteria will travel to the bladder β causing an infection.
Bacteria from the large intestine, such as E. There are several ways you can decrease your chance of getting a UTI, in addition to always wiping from front to back, especially if you seem to be prone to infections. They include:. Urinate after sex to flush away any bacteria that may have entered your urethra. If you use a diaphragm, lubricated condoms, or spermicidal jelly for birth control, consider switching to another method.
Diaphragms can increase bacteria growth, while lubricated condoms and spermicides can cause irritation. The truth is that while this can increase the spread of bacteria because moisture can be trapped, it will NOT cause an infection. Underwear with a cotton crotch is also recommended. Bad hygiene can cause a UTI: This is not true. You will not get a UTI from not showering regularly, nor can you get one from close contact from someone with poor hygiene.
Drinking cranberry juice will prevent or treat a UTI: Studies on the effectiveness of cranberry juice for preventing or treating UTIs have produced mixed results.
