Natural Remedies For Urinary Tract Infections

Approximately 10 million individuals go to the doctor annually due to urinary tract infections. It is commonplace for women to contract UTIs aby their lifetime, with statistics indicating that one in five females will fall victim to them. If you believe that you may have a bladder infection, it is likely that you will go to your family doctor or an emergency clinic for testing. They will likely offer a short-term antibiotic remedy and then you will be allowed to leave. If you are expecting and do not want to use antibiotics, or if you have a UTI that does not respond to antibiotics, you could be interested in utilizing natural methods to treat your urinary tract infection. We questioned specialists in obstetrics and gynecology to determine the accurate method of identifying if someone has a urinary tract infection, as well as which natural cures are successful.

What Is a Urinary Tract Infection?

A UTI is brought on by bacteria entering the urinary tract, usually through the urethra, and growing in number. The urinary system consists of the urethra, the bladder, the tubes known as ureters, and the kidneys. Infections in the urinary tract can take place in any region, but usually start in the urethra or bladder when it comes to urinary tract infections (UTIs). If not managed, the sickness may extend to the kidneys.

Studies done in 2013 have indicated that a majority of urinary tract infections are brought about by E. coli, yet other microorganisms such as viruses and fungi may also lead to contamination. E. coli is bacteria that is regularly existing in intestines of people and animals, however too much of it can lead to food poisoning or additional kinds of affliction.

How Can You Get a UTI?

The greatest hazard for contracting a urinary tract infection is a person’s sex. An investigation reported in the same research indicated that female individuals are eight times more susceptible to obtaining a urinary tract infection than male individuals. It is hypothesized that female anatomy makes it easier for bacteria to get to the bladder because of its shorter urethra.

Other risk factors that can lead to a urinary tract infection include:

Frequent Sexual Intercourse – Sexual activity can transport bacteria from the anus and genitals into the urinary tract. If you notice that sexual activity leads to UTIs, be sure to urinate after sex to immediately flush out the bladder. Also, give Uqora a try.
Using Spermicides – A 2019 study in the Therapeutic Advances in Urology Journal suggests that spermicides can change the pH balance of the vagina. This change in pH can change the bacterial profile of the vagina too (some bacteria grow better or worse in certain pH levels).
Using Barrier Methods of Birth Control – Diaphragms, condoms, and other barrier methods lead to a greater risk of contracting a UTI, as this study from 2011 reports. Women who don’t want to use hormonal birth control and use these methods may be at risk.
Using Catheters – Catheters can also lead to UTIs. The 2019 study (mentioned above) suggests that catheter use can also increase the risk of developing UTIs and lead to other complications.
Being Pregnant – Many women have experienced their first UTI (or more frequent UTIs) during pregnancy. The reason is that the risk of bacteria reaching the kidneys increases during pregnancy (due to changes in the pelvis and urethra), according to an article published in Global Advances in Health and Medicine. UTIs can present serious problems for both the mother and baby so it’s important to prevent them if possible or get treatment quickly.
Being Post-Menopausal – The 2019 study mentioned earlier explains that a woman’s body creates less estrogen following menopause which can cause the vaginal walls to become thin and dry. This change in the vagina can make inflammation and infection occur more easily.
Immune System Issues and Disease – Preexisting conditions and immune dysfunction can cause more frequent UTIs. According to a 2013 review, autoimmune diseases, metabolic disease are two disease that can have this affect. It makes sense that an immune system that is not working well can cause more infections in general, but, on the other hand, some research published in 2010 found that the normal immune response to a UTI can damage the bladder and lead to more infections.
Having Poor Hygiene Habits – This is a big one for kids and adults. Teach young girls (and remember yourself) to always wipe from front to back to prevent spreading bacteria toward the vaginal opening. Also, drink plenty of water and use the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge to go. Both of these things will prevent bacteria from building up in the bladder.

Having risk factors does not guarantee that you will experience urinary tract infections. You have many options to avert and eventually terminate a UTI.

Signs and Symptoms of a UTI

If you are familiar with the agony and uneasiness of a urinary tract infection, then you are possibly quite informed of the side effects. Women who regularly get urinary tract infections over time are familiar with the warning signs when one is beginning.

If you’re not certain, being aware of the indicators and effects to be aware of will assist you in identifying a sickness at the start of its progression.

The most common symptoms include:

Pain or a burning sensation in the vagina when urinating.
A frequent need to urinate (often feeling you have to go, but only a small amount of urine comes out).
Pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen.
Cloudy, dark or foul-smelling urine.
Pink or reddish colored urine – signaling blood in the urine (many women find this is a symptom that signals a more serious infection).

You have an improved likelihood of not needing antibiotics or a trip to the doctor if UTI is captured quickly, as it can be treated in the home with a natural remedy.

Natural Remedies For UTIs

Probiotics

As much as 80% of urinary tract infections are provoked by E. coli bacteria which is often found in the digestive tract. What is the cause of this bacteria being located so far south? It appears that some types of E. coli have the capability to go beyond the intestines and can be the cause of issues like a urinary tract infection. If E. coli is the cause of your bladder infection, taking Lactobacillus probiotics might assist in restoring a good equilibrium of vaginal bacteria and eliminating the urinary tract infection. Probiotics are living microorganisms which work to ensure that the intestine maintains an adequate amount of desirable and undesirable bacteria. You can get a hold of probiotics made of Lactobacillus in practically any pharmacy; while that can be beneficial for digestive health, these supplements meant to be taken orally will not do a lot to treat your urinary tract infection. The reason why you have a urinary tract infection is because the E. coli bacteria that resides in your intestines has spread outside of the digestive system and into your female organs. In testing, the most successful treatment for a urinary tract infection was a probiotic suppository, which was placed in the vagina, that contained the bacteria Lactobacillus. It is important to consult a doctor prior to using any form of vaginal suppository in order to ensure you are selecting the appropriate one.

Cranberry Products

If you have the occasional urinary tract infection (UTI), although cranberry may not fully get rid of your symptoms, studies have revealed that it can help reduce the discomfort experienced by women who have persistent or recurrent UTIs. Prince suggests that like probiotics, cranberries can impede the sticking of E. coli to the bladder’s walls, reducing the possibility of experiencing a UTI. That’s partly because of the tart berry’s genetic makeup. Cranberries are overflowing with H2O, so they are great for replenishing your body with liquid when you have a urinary tract infection. In addition, cranberries contain anthocyanins, which are plant-based colors that serve as a natural form of protection against harmful bacteria in the digestive system.

Women who are sexually active have an increased risk of developing urinary tract infections. There’s no need to stop getting frisky though. A straightforward way to avoid a UTI is to urinate straight after having sexual intercourse.

In order to handle repeated urinary tract infections with cranberry, heed what the 2016 study at Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine stated: Abandon sugary cranberry juice mixes and choose cranberry tablets as an alternative. Why? The research determined that individuals taking two capsules of pure cranberry juice per day had a 50 percent decrease in the probability of developing a urinary tract infection. It’s not to say that cranberry juice is ineffective against urinary tract infections; however, it is not as effective since most cranberry juice that can be bought in stores is not completely pure. It may be difficult to swallow large amounts of undiluted cranberry juice, which is why the research suggests taking capsules as a natural way to treat urinary tract infections. 16 ounces or more of the juice needs to be taken daily for it to be effective. The negative aspect to taking cranberry capsules is that you won’t acquire any of the amazing moisturizing advantages that fresh cranberries give, as the berries have been dried out, turned into a powder, grounded, and put in pill form. Opting for the capsule option? Make certain to consume a lot of water as well.

Garlic

Garlic has the potential to significantly enhance the taste of your homemade meals. It appears that garlic may be able to reduce the signs of a urinary tract infection. Garlic is a type of allium plant, the same species that encompasses onions, leeks, and chives. Garlic has been employed for many years due to its natural antibiotic qualities in a variety of things from medicinal ointments to beverages. Researchers at the Birla Institute of Technology and Sciences in India observed that 82 percent of antibiotic-resistant bacteria within the urine of patients with UTIs showed an optimistic response to garlic extract treatment. Do not consume a piece of freshly cut garlic yet. Participants in the study were provided with a dilution of garlic that was prepared by dissolving it into water. Don’t fret if you don’t have a fully-equipped lab in your house for producing an aqueous extract. An investigation from 2009 discovered an impressive decrease in UTIs brought on by non-E. coli bacteria in mice that had been administered garlic in pill form. Unfortunately, there isn’t enough data to support this conclusion. It’s a good idea to talk to your physician before trying any homeopathic treatment, but it’s relatively safe to consume garlic in small amounts. Rather than increasing the amount of garlic in your pasta meals, consider making some garlic tea instead. It is simple to create this item in your own residence using just a few materials. If you find garlic’s flavor too strong, you may want to experiment with adding a bit of ginger and honey to improve the taste.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C may not be helpful in treating a cold, however it could be of use in fighting off a urinary tract infection. Vitamin C, which is commonly known as ascorbic acid, can be beneficial in the prevention of urinary tract infections due to its immune boosting capabilities and its ability to make urine more acidic, thus making it harder for bacteria to survive. There is a disagreement among health care providers as to whether or not taking vitamin C is an effective treatment for urinary tract infections. A 2016 study that attempted to find other alternatives to antibiotic treatments for UTIs revealed that there was no change in symptoms in the thirteen participants who were used for the analysis. Yet, due to the notably small sample size, the conclusion from this study may not be reliable. A research on more than 100 expecting mothers suggested that those given Vitamin C experienced a nearly 17 percent decrease in the occurrence of urinary tract infections. It is challenging to determine if vitamin C is a good cure for UTIs due to the unknown status of collecting urine cultures throughout the individuals’ displaying symptoms and the small quantity of vitamin C given. So should you treat your UTI with vitamin C? Having a bit more vitamin C than you usually would through an extra glass of orange juice likely won’t be a problem for your health, so it won’t hurt if you consume some more for the purpose of getting rid of a UTI. It is still crucial to speak to your physician prior to ingesting a vitamin or attempting to manage a UTI without medical guidance – even if it’s just vitamin C!

Parsley

Parsley tea is one of my favored treatments for urinary tract infections. This item has the ability to help your body detoxify itself and it also promotes a higher flow of urine. I believe that by consuming parsley tea, I am providing my body with additional food for growth. You can either purchase parsley tea or make some yourself by steeping a quarter cup of freshly chopped parsley in one cup of boiling water for around five minutes. It was suggested by most of the resources I looked through that consuming no more than one cup per day is advisable.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory herb. I consume turmeric tea when I feel the typical burning of a UTI. I experienced a marked decrease in discomfort due to the urinary tract infection after consuming a tiny quantity of turmeric tea. The agony it had caused me previously was so overbearing.

When to Get More Help

Urinary tract infections can have a profound impact on a person’s daily life. So, many people prefer to treat them at home. But sometimes medical intervention is needed.

Seek your doctor’s advice if you:

are pregnant
have tried home remedies, but continue to experience symptoms for more than 72 hours
are experiencing low-back pain, fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting (the infection may have spread to the kidneys)
are unsure if your UTI needs additional treatment
have sharp pain (it could be a kidney stone)

It seems more comforting to take care of a urinary tract infection at home instead of going to the doctor and taking medication. But, in some cases, professional medical help is required. When uncertain, I consult my physician from SteadyMD and consider if any of these natural treatments for UTI’s might be able to assist.