Urinary tract infection is a condition caused by the proliferation of bacteria in the urinary tract, which includes the urethra, bladder, ureters and kidneys. These microorganisms usually enter the urinary tract through the urethra and can multiply, causing irritation and inflammation. There are different types of this disease, with cystitis (bladder infection) and pyelonephritis (kidney infection) being the most common.

Symptoms depend on the affected area, but the most common include a burning sensation when urinating, increased urinary frequency, urgency to urinate, abdominal or pelvic pain, cloudy or strong-smelling urine and the presence of blood. In more serious cases, it can cause fever, chills, nausea and vomiting.

There are several habits that can contribute to the development of urinary infections. Below, check out some of them!

1. Not drinking enough water

Dehydration often results in overconcentration of urine, facilitating the proliferation of bacteria in the urinary tract. Furthermore, according to gynecologist Dr. Christian Aguiar, a doctor specializing in natural supplements, not consuming water adequately “can lead to more concentrated urine, irritating the bladder and compromising local immunity, leading to infections”.

2. Holding urine for prolonged periods

Taking a long time to go to the bathroom causes bacteria to multiply in the bladder. “A simple attitude that can help a lot, in addition to increasing fluid intake, is not to hold urine for long periods. The fact that the bladder remains without emptying for a long time favors a greater colonization of bacteria in this region, which facilitates the emergence of urinary infections”, highlights gynecologist Dr. André Vinicius.

3. Do not urinate after sexual intercourse

During a sexual activitybacteria can be pushed into the urethra. Therefore, urinating after sex helps eliminate these microorganisms before they cause infection.

4. Not maintaining adequate hygiene

Poor intimate hygiene, especially after using the bathroom, allows bacteria to enter the urinary tract. “When you go to the toilet, always clean from front to back and, when evacuating, prefer to wash or use neutral moistened wipes, such as those suitable for babies, cleaning the area to remove residues of feces and bacteria”, recommends Dr. Adriana Campaner, leader of the Lower Genital Tract committee of the Brazilian Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FEBRASGO).

Furthermore, when cleaning, the doctor recommends avoiding using highly perfumed soaps, in order not to irritate the intimate area. “If possible, use specific products for intimate hygiene, as they can be used every day”, he says.

5. Wearing tight clothes

Tight clothing, especially panties or underwear made from synthetic materials, often creates a humid, stuffy environment that encourages the growth of bacteria. “[…] Wear lighter, more airy clothes. This reduces the risk of developing infections vaginalwhich, in turn, are associated with urinary infections. The urethra (channel through which urine comes out) is very close to the vagina; Vaginal infections can take bacteria from the vagina to this urethral canal, generating cystitis, which is a type of urinary infection”, explains Dr. André Vinicius.

6. Diet high in sugar and processed foods

Excessive consumption of sugars and processed foods favors bacterial growth in the urinary tract. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and lean proteins, in this scenario, helps maintain a healthy immune system and reduce the risk of infections. According to Dr. Christian Aguiar, the intake of vitamin C, cranberries and probiotics, for example, helps maintain a healthy balance of bacteria.

7. Inadequate hygiene during the menstrual period

Not changing pads frequently enough or not maintaining adequate hygiene during menstrual period may increase the risk of urinary tract infections. Therefore, change tampons every 4 hours, depending on your menstrual flow. External absorbents, in turn, must be changed every 3 to 4 hours, varying according to the intensity of the flow.

8. Total waxing of the intimate area

Removing your pubic hair completely can increase your risk of recurring urinary tract infections. This is because the hair in the intimate region performs a natural protective function, helping to reduce friction on the skin and acting as a barrier against the entry of microorganisms.

When this protection is completely eliminated, the skin can become more susceptible to minor injuries, irritations and changes in the local microbiota, factors that favor the proliferation of bacteria and can facilitate the development of urinary tract infections, especially in people with a predisposition to the problem.