How to Prevent Bladder Infections

Though bladder infections aren't generally serious, they are uncomfortable, inconvenient and can take weeks to clear up. If gone untreated, the infection could lead to chronic urinary tract infections and eventually cause kidney failure. Though they occur in both males and females, women seem to be most affected. Luckily there are several precautions you can take to help prevent cystitis and reduce your risk of contracting this bacterial infection.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Take showers instead of long hot baths. Frequent bathing in a tub can lead to infection when the contaminated water enters the urethra. Soaps and oils are just as apt to cause infection as dirt so anything in the water puts you at risk.
2. Wipe from front to back after going to the bathroom. For women, this practice will prevent passing fecal matter into the vagina and then onto the bladder.
3. Drink lots of fluids, especially water. It's been thought that cranberry juice has healing properties designed to fight infection, but talk to your doctor before drinking any quantities to ensure it doesn't effect other medications you may be taking.
4. Empty your bladder as soon as possible after intercourse. Drinking a glass of water beforehand will help you to flush out any bacteria that may be present.
5. Stay away from feminine sprays and deodorants in the genital area. They can irritate delicate skin and lead to infection.
6. Wear underwear with a cotton crotch rather than nylon. Cotton breathes and allows for better ventilation than nylon.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure and talk to your doctor right away if you develop any signs of a bladder infection. Frequent or painful urination, cloudy urine and a low grade fever are all signs you should watch for.