Can I prevent a UTI?

Glass of Water Once you experience a urinary tract infection, you'll do whatever it takes to prevent another UTI. However, recurring infections are actually quite common, with some women having 3 or more UTIs a year.

In fact, a woman's body has infection-fighting properties that normally protect the urinary system and prevent the growth of bacteria. But since the bacteria that cause a UTI are most commonly found in the digestive tract and stool, their proximity to the female urethra increases the likelihood of an infection.

So UTIs may happen, no matter how careful you are. Luckily, there are things you can do to try and reduce your chances of getting one. The most important step is to talk with your doctor about urinary tract infection prevention. He or she may prescribe an antibiotic, or suggest lifestyle changes that could help you avoid a UTI.

Here are some other tips to help you prevent a UTI:

  • Drink lots of water.
  • Drink 8-16 ounces of cranberry juice daily to keep bacteria from growing and clinging to your bladder wall. Or take AZO CRANBERRY® tablets to get benefits of cranberry juice in a convenient tablet.
  • Wipe from front to back when you go to the bathroom.
  • If you are sexually active, go to the bathroom right after you have sex.
  • Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the need, rather than when the urge becomes strong.
  • Use tampons instead of sanitary pads and change them every three to four hours.
  • Wear clean cotton underwear that will allow air circulation and discourage the warm, moist environment necessary for bacteria growth.
  • Don't hang around in a wet bathing suit or on a damp towel. Get into dry stuff as soon as you can.
  • Avoid wearing tight clothes like ultra skin-tight jeans.

Can cranberries really help?

Cranberries Yes. Studies show that cranberries, which are loaded with vitamin C and other antioxidants, can help prevent bacteria in the urinary tract from attaching to the bladder wall. To get benefits of cranberry juice without all the sugar, try AZO CRANBERRY® tablets to help maintain a health urinary tract.