10 Natural Remedies for Urinary Tract Symptoms in Women

Discover Natural Remedies for Urinary Tract Symptoms in Women to Help You Fight/Prevent Urinary Tract Symptoms!

Urinary tract infections (UTI’s) affect more women than men. And we are going to discuss natural remedies/prevention for urinary tract symptoms in women today.

If you’ve ever suffered from a UTI (Urinary Tract Infection) you’d know how painful it can be. From frequent and tiring bathroom visits to the frustration of public embarrassment, UTI can be a harrowing experience for anyone!

It is considered the second most common reason why people visit their doctors each year.

In fact every woman has a 50% chance of experiencing it at some point in their lifetime (scary!).

While many doctors prescribe antibiotics to kill the harmful UTI causing E. coli or Escherichia coli bacteria, these antibiotics can’t selectively destroy just the harmful bacteria.

They often end up killing both the bad and the good bacteria, which can lead to a vaginal yeast infection.

That’s the reason you’re asked to consume probiotics along with or after such antibiotics’ treatment, to help rebuild the gut flora.

The side effects of these antibiotics lead many people to turn to natural remedies for urinary tract symptom relief.

Antibiotics may not be a preference, but they may be essential. It is always best to check with your medical provider first before using natural remedies!

If you get UTI’s frequently (more than three in 12 months), have had a “silent UTI” (one with no symptoms), are over age 65, are currently pregnant or breast-feeding, or have an impaired immune system it is especially important to seek the help of a medical provider at the very start of your symptoms!

What Causes UTI’s?

A Urinary tract infection occurs when gastrointestinal bacteria such as E. Coli invades your urinary tract. Some of the reasons that could lead to the invasion of these UTI causing bacteria include:

• Lack of proper hygiene
• Wiping from back to front after using the bathroom
• Holding urine for a long period of time
• Not drinking enough water
• Sexual intercourse with someone, who has an infection. Close proximity between the vagina and urethra is a big culprit here.

Types of Urinary Tract Infections and their Symptoms

There are three types of UTI and they are:

Infection of the Urethra (Urethritis) – This is the mild stage, when the infection is limited to the urethra. It is characterized by burning sensation during urination.

This is the stage were you may find that by following the “Natural Remedies for UTI Pain” information below that you can stop the symptoms from progressing and reverse your symptoms.

If you find your symptoms have progressed to stage two you need to contact your physician!

Infection of the Bladder (Cystitis) – This occurs when the infection travels to the bladder. The symptoms can include frequent urination, pain during urination, lower abdominal pain, pressure on the pelvic and blood in the urine.

Infection of the Kidneys (acute pyelonephritis) – This is the most serious type. This can be a life threatening infection. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, fever, frequent urination, upper back and side pain. For some – it can progress rapidly. Do not attempt to treat this stage with natural remedies!

Summary of Urinary Tract Infection Symptoms

• Persistent urge to urinate
• Frequent urination
• Cloudy urine
• Smelly urine
• Burning sensation while urinating
• Lower abdominal pain
• Upper back and/or side (flank) pain
• Pelvic pain
• Persistent fatigue

10 Natural Remedies for Urinary Tract Symptom Discomfort

Note: Most of these can be used along with an antibiotic.  Talk with your doctor before using herbal remedies, or if you have any questions!

#1. Drink Enough Water!

Drink plenty of water. Not only do you need water for hydration, but water is also a very powerful natural detoxifier. It helps to flush toxins, impurities and bacteria out of your system.

You should drink at least 8 glasses of water daily. Water is also good for your digestive system and helps to improve bowel movement.

#2. Empty Your Bladder Often

Urinate as often and as soon as you get the urge. This is very important because holding urine causes bacteria to build up in the urinary tract. Urinating often helps to flush out bacteria from your system.

#3. Cranberry Juice

Cranberry juice has been found to inhibit the multiplication of the bacteria that cause urinary tract infection. This makes it helpful for preventing UTI.

If you hate the taste of cranberry juice there are cranberry tablets capsules, or softgels such as these available.

If you are on any prescription medication, including: Atorvastatin (Lipitor), Nifedipine (Procardia), Warfarin (Coumadin), or a medication that is changed by the liver (this is a lengthy list) be sure and talk with your physician or pharmacist before using cranberry juice or a cranberry supplement.

#4. Garlic

Garlic contains Allicin, which has anti-microbial, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. It has been found to be effective for combating drug resistant bacteria including E. Coli, which is the main culprit behind UTI.  The Allicin content of garlic also makes it beneficial for treating yeast infection.

#5. Probiotics

Probiotics help to restore the natural flora in your gut and body.  You should eat a lot of probiotic foods like sauerkraut, kefir, kimchi or yogurt. However, if those foods don’t appeal to you, there are quality probiotic supplements out there you can take.

Nutrition Essentials #1 Rated Probiotic – Most CFU’sHyperbiotics PRO-15 Probiotics – 60 Daily Time Release PearlsDr. Tobias Probiotics: 30 Billion with Delay Release

#6. Herbal Natural Remedies for UTI in Women

There are several herbal remedies you can use for urinary tract infection. One of these herbal remedies is Uva ursi (bearberry leaf), which has been know to be quite effective for UTI.

Other herbal natural remedies for UTI in women include coriander seed tea and parsley tea.

#7. Vitamin C

Vitamin C has been found to inhibit E. Coli, the main bacteria that cause urinary tract infection. A study shows that taking 100 mg of vitamin C daily for 3 months during pregnancy helped reduce the rate of infection in the subjects.

#8. Hot Packs

You can use hot packs to alleviate the lower abdominal and back pains associated with UTI. Hot packs help to reduce inflammation and pain by improving circulation in the affected area.

You can even add a few drops of essential oils for pain to the packs to increase their effectiveness.

Hot & Cold Reusable Gel Pack, 7.5My Heating Pad- Hot Therapy Pack – Heat Therapy

#9. Personal Hygiene

You should also endeavor to stay dry and clean. Always wipe from front to back after using the bathroom. Wiping from back to front can introduce bacteria into your urethra and lead to an infection.

#10. Loose and Cotton Clothing

Try to avoid wearing tight clothing like skinny jeans as they will make you sweat a lot thereby providing a thriving environment for bacteria to grow.

Loose clothing allows for free flow of air to keep you dry and clean. Also opt for clothing and underpants made with cotton material.

Other Risk Factors for UTI

Other factors that can increase your risks of developing urinary tract infection include:

• Menopause
• Diabetes
• Pregnancy
• Suppressed immune system
• Spermicide
• Diaphragm
• Catheter

Hopefully the above mentioned natural remedies for UTI in women will be helpful to you in fighting and preventing urinary tract infections.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not intend to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition. It is always recommended that you seek the advise of your private medical doctor.