You can take these steps to reduce your risk of urinary tract infections:
• Drink plenty of liquids, especially water: Drinking water helps dilute your urine and ensures that you'll urinate more frequently — allowing bacteria to be flushed from your urinary tract before an infection can begin.
• Drink cranberry juice: Although studies are not conclusive that cranberry juice prevents UTIs, it is likely not harmful.
• Wipe from front to back: Doing so after urinating and after a bowel movement helps prevent bacteria in the anal region from spreading to the vagina and urethra.
• Empty your bladder soon after intercourse: Also, drink a full glass of water to help flush bacteria.
• Avoid potentially irritating feminine products: Using deodorant sprays or other feminine products, such as douches and powders, in the genital area can irritate the urethra.
• Change your birth control method: Diaphragms, or unlubricated or spermicide-treated condoms, can all contribute to bacterial growth.
Courtesy: Mayo Clinic
