Prevention:

Lifestyle changes may help prevent some urinary tract infections.

After menopause, a woman may use estrogen cream in the vagina area to reduce the chance of getting further infections.

BATHING AND HYGIENE

• Choose sanitary pads instead of tampons, which some doctors believe make infections more likely. Change the pad each time you use the bathroom.
• Do not douche or use feminine hygiene sprays or powders. As a general rule, do not use any product containing perfumes in the genital area.
• Take showers instead of baths. Avoid bath oils.
• Keep your genital area clean. Clean your genital and anal areas before and after sexual activity.
• Urinate before and after sexual activity.
• Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom.

CLOTHING

• Avoid tight-fitting pants.
• Wear cotton-cloth underwear and pantyhose, and change both at least once a day.

DIET

• Drink plenty of fluids (2 to 4 quarts each day).
• Drink cranberry juice or use cranberry tablets, but NOT if you have a personal or family history of kidney stones.
• Do NOT drink fluids that irritate the bladder, such as alcohol and caffeine.

Urinating immediately after sexual intercourse may help remove any bacteria that may have gotten in during intercourse. If you do not urinate for a long period of time, the bacteria have time to multiply. Frequent urinating may reduce the risk of cystitis in those who are prone to urinary tract infections.