UTI Prevention Tips
As an intermittent catheter user, you may be prone to developing a urinary tract infection at some point during your cathing routine. While it is important to know the symptoms and treatment of UTIs, it is also beneficial to know what you can do to help prevent them.
Here are a few ways to help prevent UTIs when self‐cathing:
After speaking with your doctor, a routine that best meets your needs and approach to cathing should be determined. This routine should include knowing on average, how many times a day you'll need to self‐cath.
If you have the urge to urinate, don't hesitate or wait too long to empty your bladder. If you don't empty your bladder properly, urine will become stagnant and create the perfect environment for bacteria to grow.
Clean hands can help prevent contamination of your catheter and the spread of bacteria when it is being inserted into your urethra.
In addition to washing your hands, be sure to cleanse your genital area with mild, fragrance‐free soap or pre‐moistened wipes.
Intermittent catheters are a single‐use device. Do not try to clean your catheter once it has been inserted into your urethra. Use a new catheter each time you cath.
Staying hydrated is essential for keeping the body functioning at its optimal level and helps to flush out bacteria and toxins from your system. It is recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
Drinks like soda, tea or coffee will make the body produce more urine at an accelerated rate because of the diuretic effects of caffeine. This can throw off your cathing routine. Caffeinated beverages can also irritate your bladder.
Catheters like GentleCath Glide™ and Cure Ultra™ come with a (sterile) handling sleeve designed to help reduce contamination of the catheter tube. Using this sleeve to handle the catheter may help prevent bacteria from your hands from being transferred to the catheter and then into your urethra.
The purpose of this is to flush out any bacteria that has been introduced to your urethra through sexual activity.
Consuming fresh or frozen cranberries, or pure (unsweetened) cranberry juice may be beneficial to help reduce the growth of bacteria in your urethra. Speak with your healthcare professional first. If you are on blood‐thinning medications consuming cranberry juice may have negative side effects with your medication.
Women tend to be more prone to urinary tract infections due to the length and location of their urethra. In general, women get UTIs up to 30 times more often than men do.1
Don’t panic, stay calm but be proactive.
Remember, UTIs are common. With prompt and proper attention, UTIs can easily be treated. Don't ignore symptoms and once your UTI has been identified, follow your healthcare professionals prescribe treatment plan.
If you think you have a urinary tract infection, or are suffering from any of these symptoms, please contact your healthcare professional immediately. This information is not meant to replace medical advice.
References: 1. Foxman, B. (2002). Epidemiology of urinary tract infections: Incidence, morbidity, and economic costs. American Journal of Medicine; 113(Suppl. 1A): 5S‐13S.
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