Prevention Myths, Evidence supporting why!

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is a build-up of harmful bacteria, resulting in an uncomfortable diagnosis.

Common symptoms:

• Frequent urination of small amounts
• Burning sensation when urinating
• Foul-smelling urine
• Cramping in abdominal region
• Urine cloudy or pinkish color

A UTI is a common diagnosis, with approximately 150 million new cases of UTI each year; with women more likely to be diagnosed than men, and reoccurrence increases with age (Heidar et al., 2019).

Some risk factors, according to https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/uti.html

• • • • Previous UTI
      • Changes in vaginal bacteria
      • Poor hygiene
      • Sexual activity
      • Pregnancy

 Photo credit: Leo Reynolds on VisualHunt

Prevention

Myth 1 from a doctor!

Don’t believe everything you read online, even if they are a doctor. In the link below titled “Myths and Truths About Urinary Tract Infections” the author informs the public of some accurate information regarding a UTI and prevention methods. However, the public is informed in this source that the method of wiping for perineal hygiene is not a way to prevent a UTI. In addition, it is noted that cranberry juice/supplements have no support for UTI prevention.

Myths and Truths About Urinary Tract Infections

Evidence to prove them wrong!

A review was conducted by https://doi-org.ezproxy.neit.edu/10.4103/UA.UA_104_19 on various studies, and reports reliable information on prevention of a UTI, such as proper perineal care. An additional article https://doi-org.ezproxy.neit.edu/10.13181/mji.v28i3.3299 assessed multiple studies which shown cranberry consumption to be an effective method in preventing a UTI.

The studies support trialing the methods:

• Intake of cranberry products
• Vaginal probiotics
• Perform proper perineal hygiene (wiping front to back).

Cranberries contain antioxidants, which support a healthy immune system. Wiping front to back prevents fecal matter to enter the urethra. Both methods prevent build-up of bacteria in the urethra which prevents a UTI. The evidence in these articles, prove the methods of prevention in the media source “Myths and Truths About Urinary Tract Infections” to be inaccurate.

Myth 2 all these years!

The media clip below publicizes douching as a method to prevent a UTI. The YouTuber explains the purpose and method of douching to thoroughly clean the vagina. The YouTuber states, “Douching cleanses the vagina to prevent infections.” Douching is supported in this media clip based on the technique being around for many years, and the producer not acquiring a vaginal infection since using this remedy. Various types of douche solutions are explained and suggested to perform after sexual intercourse and after each menstrual cycle.

Evidence to debunk this myth!

The document, Widespread practice can cause array of problems (2018), provides reliable information on douching since it was retrieved from evidence-based studies and https://www.cdc.gov/std/bv/stdfact-bacterial-vaginosis.htm. Douching actually alters the good bacteria in the vagina which increases the chances of an infection. Specialists recommend washing only the exterior walls of the vagina with warm water and mild or unscented soap.

The menstrual cycle is a natural way for the body to remove the uterine lining each month. If proper hygiene and correct use of tampons/pads are not implemented, moisture and heat may be trapped which can increase bacteria growth and cause a UTI. Douching is not the correct approach during or after the menstrual cycle, proper hygiene and following the directions associated with tampon/pad use are.

Myth 3 No Tampons!

This media clip informs the public to not use tampons as most contain chemicals which affect the PH balance in the vagina, therefore resulting in a UTI. The producer suggests using menstrual cups or discs and drink plenty of fluids to prevent a UTI.

Proven false by evidence!

According to https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/facts-tampons-and-how-use-them-safely tampons do not cause a UTI as long as they are used correctly. Before any tampons can be sold in the U.S., they must go through the FDA to determine whether they are safe and effective. Follow the directions on the label to safely use tampons and prevent a UTI.

Know the facts!

Don’ t believe everything you read online, do your research!

• As supported by the evidence-based research above, proper perineal hygiene and cranberry consumption are two effective ways to prevent a UTI.
• Vaginal douching is not a healthy means to clean the vagina. The proper method of cleaning, is to clean only the external vaginal walls.

Additional preventative methods, according to https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/uti.html

• Drink plenty of fluids, at least 8 – 9 cups per day
• Urinate after sexual activity
• Take showers instead of baths
• Minimize sprays or powders in the genital region

Overall

Each day, perform proper hygiene, drink plenty of fluids, consume cranberries, and urinate when you have the urge, so you can expel bacteria. If you have any questions or concerns, contact your doctor. If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, contact your doctor immediately.

References

Abou Heidar, N. F., Degheili1, J. A., Yacoubian, A. A., Khauli, R. B. (2019). Management of urinary tract infection in women: A practical approach for everyday practice. Urology Annals, 11(4). https://doi-org.ezproxy.neit.edu/10.4103/UA.UA_104_19

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Bacterial vaginosis – CDC basic fact sheet. https://www.cdc.gov/std/bv/stdfact-bacterial-vaginosis.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Urinary tract infection. https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/uti/html

United States Food and Drug Administration. (2020). The facts on tampons-and how to use them safely. http:www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/facts-tampons-and-how-to-use-them-safely

Tambunan, M. P., Rahardjo, H. E. (2019). Cranberries for women with recurrent urinary tract infection: A meta-analysis. Medical Journal of Indonesia, 28(3):268–75. https://doi.org/10.13181/mji.v28i3.3299

Widespread practice can cause array of problems. (2018). Chain Drug Review, 40(4), 33.