What causes an urinary tract infection?
Urinary tract infection develops when bacteria enter the urinary system (bladder), multiply and cause inflammation. Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder and most often its cause is a bacterial infection.
A bladder infection can be painful and annoying, and it can become a serious health problem if the infection spreads to your kidneys.
Although these preventive self-care measures aren't well-studied, doctors sometimes recommend the following for repeated bladder infections:
- Drink plenty of liquids, especially water.
- Urinate frequently. If you feel the urge to urinate, don't delay using the toilet.
- Wipe from front to back after a bowel movement. This prevents bacteria in the anal region from spreading to the vagina and urethra.
- Take showers rather than tub baths. If you're susceptible to infections, showering rather than bathing may help prevent them.
- Gently wash the skin around the vagina and anus. Do this daily.
- Empty your bladder as soon as possible after intercourse.
- Avoid using deodorant sprays or feminine products in the genital area. These products can irritate the urethra and bladder.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cystitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20371306
