Preventing Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Your Quick Guide

What Is a UTI?

A UTI (Urinary Tract Infection) happens when bacteria enter your urinary system (usually through the urethra) and multiply in the bladder, ureters, or kidneys. Most UTIs affect the bladder (lower urinary tract).

Common Signs & Symptoms

A burning feeling while urinating
Frequent need to urinate, often in small amounts
Urgency (“can’t wait”) even when the bladder is nearly empty
Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine
Pelvic pressure or discomfort
Fever, chills, back or flank pain, nausea

Older adults may also experience:

Confusion or changes in mental state
Fatigue or weakness
Falls or worsened mobility
Incontinence or urinary urgency

Risk Factors That Increase UTI Possibility

Female anatomy (shorter urethra)
Menopause / lower estrogen
Poor bladder emptying or urinary retention
Enlarged prostate (in men)
Catheters or instrumentation of urinary tract
Sexual activity
Use of spermicides or diaphragms
Holding urine frequently or delaying urination
Constipation
Diabetes or weakened immune system
Tight, non-breathable underwear or clothing
Use of irritating hygiene products (douches, scented sprays, etc.)

Proven Strategies to Prevent UTIs

1. Stay Well Hydrated

Drink water consistently through the day
Aim for pale yellow to clear urine
More fluids can help flush the urinary tract

2. Urinate Often & Fully

Don’t “hold it in” when you need to go
Try “double voiding”: urinate, wait a moment, then try again
Urinate before and after sexual activity

3. Hygiene & Wiping

Always wipe front to back after using the restroom
Use showers rather than long baths
Avoid douching, scented feminine hygiene sprays, powders

4. Clothing & Personal Care

Choose underwear made of breathable fabrics (e.g. cotton)
Avoid tight or non-breathable garments
Keep genital area clean and dry

5. Consider Protective Measures

Postmenopausal women may benefit from vaginal estrogen (under physician guidance)
Cranberry supplements or products may help prevent recurrence (evidence is mixed). Ask your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements or products.

6. Manage Underlying Issues

Address constipation to avoid pressure on bladder
If you have bladder outflow issues or urinary retention, work with your provider as directed to manage these conditions
Monitor and control any underlying conditions, like diabetes

What to Do If You Suspect a UTI

Reach out to your healthcare provider — don’t delay treatment
A urine test (urinalysis/culture) will usually confirm infection
Take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed, even if symptoms improve early
Continue drinking adequate amounts of fluids to help flush bacteria
If symptoms worsen (fever, back pain, nausea, etc.), seek prompt care
Always ask your healthcare provider for specific advice on when to call to report symptoms, and when to seek urgent/emergency care.

This handout is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.