kidney and urinary tract disorders
Bladder Infection
Prevention of Bladder Infection
If women tend to develop bladder infections after sexual intercourse, they may be advised to take an antibiotic dose immediately after intercourse. Spermicides and diaphragm use should be avoided, and women should urinate as soon as possible after sexual intercourse. People who have frequent bladder infections may continually take low doses of antibiotics. Women who take antibiotics regularly to prevent bladder infections may need to discuss contraceptive options with their doctor. Postmenopausal women with frequent bladder infections and the genitourinary syndrome of menopause may benefit fromestrogencreams applied to the vulva orestrogensuppositories inserted into the vagina. Drinking plenty of fluids may help prevent cystitis. The flushing action of the urine washes many bacteria out of the bladder. The body's natural defenses eliminate the remainder of the bacteria. The use ofcranberryproducts may be helpful in preventing recurrent bladder infections, but more research is needed to clarify who would benefit from their use. It is commonly believed that wiping from front to back, and avoiding the use of tight, nonporous underwear helps women prevent bladder infections. There is no convincing evidence thatcranberryjuice helps prevent infections. 