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Urinary tract infections (also known as UTIs) are among the most common types of infection affecting the urinary tract. Women who have given birth recently are especially at risk of developing a UTI, as are the elderly and individuals with existing medical conditions, such as diabetes or a bladder disorder. Anyone who has had a UTI will likely tell you that it is not something you want to go through again. However, if you don't follow some essential hygiene tips and further avoid some foods and drinks, you may be at risk of having a repeat episode.

The most common cause of UTI is Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria. These are naturally present in the intestinal tract and vagina and usually do not cause infection unless they travel from the bowel to the urinary tract. In women, treatment may include drinking cranberry juice and taking probiotics (prebiotics), supplements containing good bacteria that help prevent infections.

People with UTIs must drink plenty of fluids so that the urine does not become too acidic or too diluted. Drinking cranberry juice or taking cranberry capsules also helps maintain a healthy urine pH. In addition, urine should not be painful when passed, and there should be no blood present in the urine or pain on passing urine.

Lifestyle modifications to prevent UTIs:

Drink plenty of water: Drink at least eight glasses of water a day to flush bacteria from your bladder. In addition, it would be best to urinate frequently to clear out bacteria that could have entered your bladder. Drinking cranberry juice or taking cranberry extract pills may help prevent UTI's as well. Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins, known to avoid bacterial adherence to the urinary tract walls.

Sugar-free diet plan: Try to include a healthy diet in your daily routine. Eat foods low on the glycemic index, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and soy products, instead of processed foods containing sugar and refined carbohydrates. Refined carbohydrates such as white bread, cookies, pastries, and white rice cause blood sugar levels to spike rapidly, increasing susceptibility to infection by encouraging the growth of more harmful bacteria in the body.

Wipe from Front to Back: Always try to wipe from front to back after peeing to ensure cleanliness and prevent infections. Also, especially after intercourse, try to watch your vagina well to avoid urinary infections.

Eat fruits and Yogurt: Fruits are packed with vitamins and minerals that boost your immune system. Yoghurt consists of probiotics and lactobacilli strains that safeguard your vagina from UTI.

Don't take too much stress: Secretion of Cortisol hormone is not beneficial for your vaginal health. Stress, anxiety, and depression takes a toll on your immune system.

Natural supplements: Try to have natural health supplements without any side effects. For example, andMe's unsweetened Cranberry Juice is plant-based and has no side effects on your health. In addition, our UTI drink helps to prevent vaginal disease and also aids your body to fight against UTI.

• Don't hold your pee
• Use high-quality lubricant while having sex
• Clean your intimate part before and after sex
• Be careful about your contraceptive procedure
• Wear cotton underwear and try to change it twice a day
• Avoid douching your vagina
• Continue regular checkup
• Avoid bubble bath