A Urologist Suggests Ways To Control or Prevent UTIs

A urinary tract infection is one more thing that you can blame on menopause – or more accurately- the lack of estrogen in your body.  The decrease in estrogen, explains New York City-based Dr. Elizabeth Kavaler, causes the bladder to become less elastic, triggering an inability to empty the bladder completely. “Ultimately, not being able to empty the bladder completely can create a breeding ground for bacteria to multiply, leaving menopausal women at risk for developing a UTI.”

Dr. Kavaler,  one of only 500 female urologists in the U.S. specializing in female urinary tract issues recommends the following to control or prevent the recurrence of UTIs associated with menopause:

• Stay Hydrated – this promotes regular urination and flushes out bacteria from the urinary tract
• Take Vitamin C – Take about 1,000 mg of vitamin C throughout the day to help inhibit the growth of some bacteria by making sure you have an acid urine.
• Lubricate – As estrogen declines, vaginal dryness increases. Make sure to be properly lubricated during sexual activity to decrease friction in the vagina/urethral areas.
• Take an Antibacterial – Dr. Kavaler, a spokesperson for Cystex, recommends this brand since it is the only OTC urinary tract medication that contains methanamine, an antibacterial agent that attacks bacteria and helps prevent it from adhering to the cell wall lining of the bladder, as well as a pain reliever.
• Strengthen Your Core- Often, a lazy bladder (unable to empty urine properly) occurs due to lower back problems, so consider doing exercises to help strengthen your back and stomach muscles.
• Answer Nature’s Call  – Urinate as soon as you feel the need to in order to eliminate unwanted bacteria.

For more information about UTIs, read Dr. Kavaler’s book,  “A Seat on the Aisle, Please!: The Essential Guide to Urinary Tract Problems in Women. “  Her website also offers an informative Q&A that will be helpful if you want some quick answers.