How to Sleep with UTI Discomfort

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can disrupt your day-to-day life, especially when the symptoms make it hard to sleep. Although men and children are also affected, UTIs impact women more often — nearly 500,000 Canadian women see a physician for a UTI each year.  

This microbial infection can cause a variety of symptoms, including lower abdominal discomfort, burning pain during urination, frequent and scant urination, and cloudy, foul-smelling urine. If you have a UTI, you may be wondering how you’re going to get a good night’s sleep.

The good news is that you have options — here’s how to decrease your UTI discomfort so you can get the rest you need.

Why UTI pain tends to worsen at night

UTI pain is worse at night because you naturally produce less urine, may experience increased pressure from your sleeping position, and have nothing else to distract you from the discomfort.

When you do finally drift off to sleep, you may wake up regularly with an urgent need to go. The trouble is that since you’re producing less urine, all you release are dribbles of what might feel like fire.

Home remedies for better sleep with UTI

If you are suffering from the discomfort of a UTI, a few simple home remedies can help you get a better night’s sleep.

Stay hydrated

The microbes that cause UTIs grow in the warm environment of your urinary system, including your bladder, and stick to the walls. As your body tries to fight the infection, it signals you to urinate more frequently to flush the infection out.

Regularly drinking ample water helps to flush your system. Try to let your bladder fill up between bathroom visits, and release as much as you can when you go. 

Drink plenty of water throughout the day, starting early and sipping often. In the evening, limit how much you drink to lessen the urge to go while you sleep.

Utilize heat therapy

Heat therapy may help reduce discomfort and make it easier to fall asleep when you have a UTI. Use a warm water bottle or heat bag to reduce muscle tension and spasms in the abdomen and low back. Avoid using an electric heating pad while you sleep — they can cause burns or lead to an electrical fire if they malfunction.

Practice good hygiene

The primary cause of a UTI is migrating microbes that live around your genitals and anus that find their way into the urinary tract. Proper hygiene can help reduce the further spread of these microbes for most people:

• Wipe from front to back after using the toilet.
• Urinate after sex, then gently rinse the area and dry thoroughly.
• Wear clean, breathable underwear, and change them regularly to keep the area clean and dry.
• Wash your hands after using the toilet or before touching your genitals.

Use over-the-counter pain relievers

Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen and naproxen can help relieve UTI pain. Take as directed and talk to your doctor if they aren’t effective.

Use the bathroom before bed

Before you go to bed, use the bathroom to help reduce feelings of urgency throughout the night. Take a little extra time to empty the bladder as much as you can.

Avoid irritating foods and beverages

Some foods and beverages may increase inflammation and make your symptoms worse. While you’re experiencing symptoms, although there is no strong evidence, some people find it helpful to avoid the following foods and drinks:

• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Highly acidic foods and juices, such as lemons or orange juice
• Spicy foods
• Drinks with added sugar, such as pops, sweetened iced tea and juice cocktails

Instead, opt for more water to stay hydrated, and reach for freshly squeezed juices (berries in particular) and fermented dairy like unsweetened yogurt to help reduce your UTI risk. 

Create a comfortable sleep environment

The pain and discomfort associated with a UTI can make it difficult to fall and stay asleep. To set yourself up for success, create a cozy sleep space. Start with clean bedding—if possible, choose natural, breathable fibres to ensure adequate airflow. Adjust the room temperature to between 15.6° and 19°C to help you fall and stay asleep faster.

Choose a comfortable position that limits pressure on the bladder. Try sleeping in the fetal position on your side, or lying on your back with your legs open and a supportive pillow under your knees.

If urinary incontinence is a concern, use an incontinence pad to absorb the moisture. 

When to consult a healthcare provider for UTI discomfort

Although you should talk to your doctor at the first sign of UTI symptoms, many Canadians don’t have a primary care physician — or the ability to leave work to wait in line at a walk-in clinic. 

While UTIs can be mild and resolve on their own within 24 to 48 hours, they can also get worse, moving into the ureters and kidneys. Ignoring a UTI can have serious consequences, so contact your doctor right away if it’s not getting better in a couple of days or you experience worsening symptoms, including:

• Fever
• Blood-tinged or bloody urine
• Pain in your back, around the kidneys
• Develop nausea or vomiting

If you’re one of the 6.5 million Canadians without a family doctor, or you’re travelling and don’t have access to a clinic, Maple lets you talk to a primary care provider over secure text, audio, or video call. Primary care providers, like doctors and nurse practitioners, can order a urine test and prescribe antibiotics if necessary. No matter when an unexpected UTI strikes, you can speak to a primary care provider on Maple 24/7/365.

It can take three to five days for UTI symptoms to disappear with antibiotics. To ensure the infection is completely resolved, continue the full course of medication, even if your symptoms go away before the prescription is done.

Managing a UTI can be challenging, but by taking proactive steps, you can alleviate discomfort and ensure a better night’s sleep. Remember to stay hydrated, avoid irritants, and talk to a healthcare provider if symptoms persist. 

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.