How to Prevent a UTI When You Feel it Coming

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are extremely common around the world. Recent studies show UTIs affect over 400 million people annually, with over 50% of women experiencing at least one in their lifetime.

Dealing with a UTI can really throw off your day. But by staying proactive—recognizing those first signs and taking steps to prevent it—you can save yourself from unnecessary discomfort and potential complications.

In this article, we’ll guide you through spotting the early symptoms, prevention tips, and simple actions you can take to stop a full-blown infection in its tracks.

Recognizing early signs of a UTI 

Early recognition of a potential UTI is key in preventing it from worsening. The initial signs can be subtle, but knowing what to look for can make a big impact.

Typical early warning signs include:

• Increased urgency and frequency: A sudden and strong urge to go to the bathroom quickly and more often than normal. Discomfort can accompany this abrupt need to urinate, even if you are only able to pass a small volume. These frequent trips to the bathroom can make you feel like your routine is being disrupted. If you find yourself urinating more than your normal patterns, you could have an impending UTI.
• Burning sensation: Inflammation and irritation of the urinary tract lining due to a bacterial infection can cause a burning sensation while urinating. The discomfort experienced can range from mild irritation to more intense pain. 
• Cloudy urine: Pay attention to changes in the clarity of your urine. If it appears cloudy or milky, it can indicate bacteria, blood cells, or pus being present. 
• Unusual odour: A strong or unpleasant odour in the urine more often indicates dehydration, but may also be an early sign of a UTI. Bacteria being present in the urine is responsible for this smell.

If you experience any of these early warning signs, you can take prompt action to prevent the infection from progressing. 

Actions to take at the first sign of a UTI

When you notice any of the above early signs, the below steps can help prevent a worsening infection.

• Hydrate: The single most effective way to prevent a UTI is to increase your water intake. Drinking more fluids ensures that you dilute your urine and urinate more often, flushing out any bacteria. For most people it is safe to slowly increase your water intake until you are emptying your bladder every few hours. The exact amount of water differs from person to person, especially for anyone with heart or kidney conditions who should check with their healthcare provider before adjusting their fluid intake.
• Visit the bathroom often: The longer you hold in your urine, the more likely bacteria will grow in your bladder. Make it a habit to use the bathroom as soon as you need to and ensure that you empty your bladder completely.
• Avoid irritants: If you think you may have a UTI, certain foods and beverages may irritate the bladder worsening the symptoms. Avoid spicy foods, caffeine, artificial sweeteners, and alcohol. Refocus on healthy foods full of fruits and vegetables that are high in water content.
• Consider cranberry products: While the evidence supporting their usefulness varies, some studies suggest that cranberry products may help prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall and colonizing. This lowers the risk of an infection. If you want to incorporate cranberry products, make sure you consume sugar-free juice or take supplements. 
• Over-the-counter medications: Some UTI symptoms can be improved with medications. The medications can alleviate the pain, burning and urgency. The medicines do not treat the infection, but they can make it tolerable while you take other preventative actions. If you have any questions, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for dosage instructions.   

Understanding UTI symptoms 

The urinary tract is divided into two sections, the upper and lower. The lower tract is composed of the urethra and the bladder. While the upper tract consists of the kidneys and ureters.

Although infection of the urethra and ureters are possible, the term UTI is generally reserved for infections of the kidneys and bladder. Understanding the signs and symptoms of a UTI may differ based on where the infection is located and the severity.

These are the two main types of UTIs: 

Cystitis (Bladder Infection)

The most common type of UTI is a bladder infection. Symptoms of cystitis can include:

• Frequent and painful urination: This symptom is characterized by a persistent urge to empty your bladder, even if just for a small volume of urine. It is often accompanied by a painful burning sensation while urinating. 
• Low-grade fever: As your body battles an infection, you may notice a slight increase in your body temperature
• Lower abdominal pain: Discomfort or pain in the pelvic area could mean that your bladder is swollen and irritated
• Pink urine: Blood in the urine, or hematuria, should always be assessed by a healthcare practitioner

Pyelonephritis (Kidney Infection)

Pyelonephritis symptoms are more severe and can result in severe health complications if not promptly addressed. These symptoms include:

• High fever: A noticeable increase in your body temperature often partnered with chills, shivers, and night sweats
• Upper back or side pain: Pain in the flanks, towards the bottom of your ribcage, and near the kidneys is a serious sign that needs to be addressed by a healthcare provider right away
• Nausea and vomiting: These gastrointestinal symptoms can signal when a bladder infection has advanced to the kidney 

It is important to identify and treat UTIs early. If you notice symptoms of a kidney or bladder infection, see a primary care provider right away. 

When to call a doctor for a UTI

Despite all your best efforts, there are still situations in which you should seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

The scenarios include:

• Your symptoms remain persistent after one to two days of preventive measures like increasing fluid intake. This suggests that your infection may be further along and require a prescription of antibiotics.
• You develop a high temperature, back pain, blood in your urine, or vomiting. You should contact a healthcare provider right away. 
• It is imperative that pregnant women seek medical advice if they experience any symptoms of a UTI. If left untreated, it can result in complications for both the mother and the baby.

Long-term prevention measures

Taking proactive steps to prevent UTIs can make a big difference in your long-term health and comfort. While some people are more prone to these infections than others, there are practical habits everyone can adopt to help lower the risk of developing a UTI. 

For all genders:

• The best method of prevention is to ensure you stay well hydrated. The amount will differ for each person. Try to consume enough to empty your bladder every few hours.
• Don’t keep your bladder full. When you feel the urge, use the bathroom, ensuring you empty your bladder completely.

For people with a vulva:

• After using the toilet, wipe from front to back. This can help avoid contamination of fecal matter in the urethra.
• Urinate after sexual activity
• Avoid using condoms with spermicide and diaphragms as contraception methods. The spermicide suppresses natural flora (good bacteria), allowing other germs to flourish.
• Wear breathable underwear like cotton. Loose-fitting garments lower bacterial growth by helping keep the area dry.
• Steer clear of douches, powders, and scented feminine hygiene products. Any of these items can be irritating to your urethra.

For people with a penis:

• Ensure cleanliness around the tip of your penis. This is especially important if you are not circumcised. The foreskin can trap bacteria and moisture, which can lead to the germs entering your urethra, causing an infection.

Common UTI myths 

There are many common misconceptions regarding UTIs that can result in ineffective prevention and confusion. These are some common myths:

UTIs only Affect Women: False

While the prevalence is greater in females than males, men can also suffer from UTIs. Males tend to be at increased risk as they age secondary to certain medical conditions, including prostate issues or catheter use.

Poor Hygiene is the Only Cause: False

Sanitation practices can play a role in urinary tract infection development, however, other variables also play a factor. These include anatomical differences, specific health conditions, and sexual activity.

Symptoms of UTIs are Always Noticeable: False

While most UTIs are symptomatic, some older adults and individuals with certain medical conditions can experience symptoms like confusion or no symptoms at all in a condition known as asymptomatic bacteriuria. As long as the bacteria isn’t causing any problems, it can be left untreated.

Cranberry Juice Cures UTIs: Flase

Although cranberry products may be beneficial in preventing UTIs, they are not a cure. Antibiotics are usually required.

If you’re currently struggling with a UTI or experiencing recurrent UTIs, it’s important to see a healthcare provider. However, we know this isn’t always easy.

Maple can help if you’re among the 6.5 million Canadians who don’t have a primary care provider. Through Maple, you can connect with a primary care provider in minutes, such as a doctor or nurse practitioner, through text or secure audio and video call, 24/7. With Maple, you can say goodbye to those awful symptoms without the need to sit in waiting rooms or after-hour clinics, and if you need antibiotics, then prescriptions can be picked up from your local pharmacy or delivered straight to your door.

Urinary tract infections can be a major inconvenience; however, they can be prevented through appropriate care and vigilance. Early detection, understanding of symptoms, and prompt action are essential. Adopting lifestyle changes, and refuting popular misconceptions will also help you manage your urinary health more effectively. 

The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not meant to replace the advice from your medical professional. Virtual care is not meant for medical emergencies. If you are experiencing an emergency like chest pain or difficulties breathing, for example, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.