THE PREVENTION OF URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS ADVICE

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1 THE PREVENTION OF URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS ADVICE Information Leaflet Your Health. Our Priority.

2 Page 2 of 5 What is a urinary tract infection? Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the second most common type of infection in the body. Women are more prone to UTI s although the condition also affects men. The urinary tract is the group of internal organs that make, transport, store and remove urine from the body (see diagram). These include the Kidneys, Ureter (tube that carries urine from kidney to bladder), bladder and urethra (tube that carries urine from bladder to the outside of the body). The most common part of the urinary tract to get an infection is the bladder. Infection here is called cystitis. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria. Yeast and fungi can be other causes. Usually the body flushes out the bacteria when you urinate, however this may not always happen. How do you know if you have a UTI? Symptoms of a UTI may include: A burning/stinging sensation when passing urine. Frequent or strong urges to pass urine even when you have little to pass. Cloudy, dark or blood stained urine. Foul smelling urine. Pain in your back or lower abdomen. Confusion (especially in the elderly). You may not experience all of these symptoms. Causes of UTIs People who suffer from the following conditions are more at risk of developing UTI s; Kidney or bladder stones Diabetes or any other disorder that suppresses the immune system. Incomplete bladder emptying. Prostate problems in men causing bladder outlet obstruction.

3 Page 3 of 5 Narrowing (stricture) in the urethra also causing bladder outlet obstruction Menopause in women. Faecal incontinence. Urinary catheters. Other groups who are more vulnerable to developing UTI s are; The elderly. Pregnant women Those who have an insufficient fluid intake- typically less than 2-3 litres per day. Women who use a diaphragm (cap) as a form of contraceptive. Advice on the prevention of UTIs A number of things are believed to help prevent UTIs. These include: Daily fluid intake of 2-3 litres (preferably water) to maintain a good urinary output which helps to flush out the urinary system. Urinate when you feel the need, don t let the bladder get over-full and deliberately try to empty the bladder fully. Wear cotton knickers and avoid wearing tight fitting clothing. Avoid perfumed soaps and shower gels. Avoid the use of tampons. If you are prone to getting UTIs after sexual intercourse: Cleanse the genital area before intercourse (but do not douche). Urinate as soon as possible after intercourse. If you are a female using a diaphragm (cap) or spermicidal creams, you may wish to choose a different form of contraception, as these can increase the risk of UTIs. If you are prone to vaginal dryness use a lubricating gel e.g. K-Y Gel Lubricating jelly. There are several alternative brands on the market. There is some evidence that drinking cranberry juice ( mls per day) can prevent the return of UTI s. It is not advised if you have a personal or family history of kidney stones or you take the drug Warfarin to thin the blood. Cranberry juices are naturally bitter and most of the common brands contain sweeteners. However, as an alternative tablets of concentrated cranberry juice can be bought at chemists, health food shops and on line. Who to contact See your own GP or telephone the Urology Department for advice

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5 Page 5 of 5 If you would like this leaflet in a different format, for example, in large print, or on audiotape, or for people with learning disabilities, please contact: Patient and Customer Services, Poplar Suite, Stepping Hill Hospital. Tel: PCS@stockport.nhs.uk. Our smoke free policy Smoking is not allowed anywhere on our sites. Please read our leaflet 'Policy on Smoke Free NHS Premises' to find out more. Leaflet number URO38 Publication date May 2016 Review date May 2018 Department Urology Location Stepping Hill Hospital