- Empty your bladder as you feel the urge, or at least every two to three hours.
- Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to flush out bacteria.
- Urinate before and after sex to cleanse the genital area.
- During sex, try different positions that may cause less friction to your urethra from your partner's penis or other contacts.
- Wear cotton underwear; synthetic fabrics can trap moisture.
- Avoid using feminine hygiene sprays, scented douches, and other chemical-laden products that may irritate the urethra. Spermicidal jellies also may increase the risk of infection.
- Take showers instead of tub baths. Swimming in excessively chlorinated pools can also be problematic.
- Practice good hygiene. Wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria around the anus from entering the vagina or urethra.
- Get enough vitamin C in your diet. It makes the urine acidic and helps keep the number of harmful bacteria in check.
- Avoid excess sugar, alcohol, and coffee.
—A.S.
