Urinary tract infections are the most common bacterial infection among adults worldwide. The key to preventing UTIs is maintaining excellent hygiene and understanding the causes of urinary tract infections.
Using a clean bidet nozzle effectively reduces bacterial exposure every time you make a pitstop.
What Causes a Urinary Tract Infection?
UTIs are usually the result of fecal matter entering the urinary tract. In most cases, bacteria enter the urethra and can travel as far as the bladder or kidneys, leading to secondary infections. Other possible causes of a UTI include:
- Dehydration
- Having sex
- Constipation
- Urinary catheters
- Poor genital hygiene (usually not keeping the area clean and dry)
Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection
Women are more likely to get UTIs, but both genders have similar symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms of urinary tract infections include:
- A burning sensation or discomfort when peeing
- Urinating more often than normal, especially at night
- Blood in urine
- Abdominal pain
- A high temperature or fever
- Low body temperature or feeling clammy
You may experience all these symptoms or just a few. Contact your healthcare provider if you aren't feeling better in a few days. If you've recently used a catheter during surgery or have underlying health conditions, get medical help right away.
Related: Can Bidets Treat Constipation Symptoms?
How to Get Rid of a Urinary Tract Infection
At home or with the help of a physician, UTIs are often treated and resolved in a few days. Talk to your doctor to determine if you need medications or additional home care options.
Medical Treatments for UTIs
Healthcare professionals may recommend painkillers to alleviate pain associated with a urinary tract infection. Most will prescribe antibiotics, especially if symptoms last for more than a week or if you have a history of UTIs. In some cases, chronic UTI sufferers undergo a 6-month program of low-dose antibiotics to eliminate bacteria in the lower urinary tract completely.
Urinary Tract Infection Treatments at Home
The key to overcoming a UTI is rest and hydration. Aim for clear urine throughout the day and account for fluid loss if you exercise. Avoid having sex while symptoms persist to reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
Preventing UTIs – Best Practices
Lower the chances of developing a UTI by practicing excellent personal hygiene. Keep the area clean and dry, and stay hydrated to keep your urethra flushed. If UTIs are a persistent problem, try this:
- Don't drink – Alcohol may irritate the bladder and increase the risk of infection.
- Avoid sugar – Evidence suggests sugar in the bloodstream and urine can increase bacterial growth and worsen infections.
- Avoid tight underwear – Tight clothing, including sports uniforms, can bring bacteria from sweat and dirt into closer contact with the urethra.
Do Bidets Cause UTIs?
Research shows that consistent bidet use can prevent UTIs in women (plus reduce the frequency and severity of constipation in all adults).
There's little evidence that bidets cause UTIs when used correctly. Using a handheld sprayer, spray from front to back to avoid introducing fecal matter near the urethra, just as you would wipe front to back. Bidet seats and attachment sprayers won’t pose any issues. Remember, bidets aren't designed to act as a douche, so avoid concentrated streams of water into the vagin*. Responsible use eliminates any bidet UTI risk.
How Common Are UTI Infections?
UTIs affect millions of women – and men – worldwide each year. Each year, more than 8.1 million patients seek medical treatment for a urinary tract infection. Sixty percent of women and 12% of men will experience the painful symptoms of a UTI during their lifetime.
Bidets Are a Smart Investment in Hygiene
Bidets offer an eco-friendly and vastly more hygienic alternative to toilet paper. Reduce UTIs, relieve constipation, and stop wasting TP with the right bidet seat or bidet attachment from Bio Bidet. Take our Bidet Quiz or contact us for help finding the perfect bidet to bring home.
