Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common infections that affect millions of women worldwide. While antibiotics are often necessary for treating active infections, many women look for UTI home remedies to prevent or manage symptoms.
A study shows that urinary tract infections are the most common infections treated outside of hospitals, affecting more than half of adult women at some point in their lives.
Your Cheat Sheet
- Drinking plenty of water, practicing good hygiene and urinating regularly can help prevent UTIs.
- UTIs can cause discomfort, inconvenience, and, in some cases, complications if left untreated.
- Cranberry capsules are a better choice than cranberry juice as they provide a more concentrated dose of the active compounds.
- Fermented foods like kefir or kimchi and probiotic supplements can help manage UTI symptoms.
- UTI home remedies help support mild symptoms, but antibiotics are necessary for treating active infections.
5 Home Remedies For UTIs
UTI home remedies can be an excellent first line of defense in preventing and managing mild symptoms.
While home remedies can provide relief and support prevention, persistent or severe UTI symptoms require professional medical attention.
1. Drink Plenty of Water
#1 UTI home remedy is water. Staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways to prevent and manage UTIs. Water acts as a natural cleansing mechanism for your urinary system.
Tip: Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily. If you notice dark-colored urine, it’s a sign you need more fluids.
2. Urinate Frequently
Regular urination helps expel bacteria before it can cause a full-blown infection. Holding urine allows bacteria to multiply and potentially cause more serious issues.
Tip: Urinate as soon as you feel the urge, especially after sexual activity.
3. Try Cranberry Supplements, Not Juice!
Cranberries are a great natural remedy for UTIs because they contain compounds that help prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract.
A University of Michigan study published in the journal American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that cranberry capsules cut the risk of UTIs by 50 percent in women with catheters during gynecological surgery.
There is a common belief that cranberry juice is a go-to remedy for UTIs, but it’s important to choose carefully. Many cranberry juices are high in sugar and low in actual cranberry content.
That’s why cranberry capsules are a better choice – they provide a more concentrated dose of the active compounds without the added sugar.
Tip: Cranberry juice can help with urinary infection symptoms but remember – not the kind you buy at grocery stores. Look for juices with no added sugar and look for 100% pure cranberry juice not a concentrate.
4. Use Probiotics
Probiotics help balance the natural bacteria in your body, supporting both urinary and digestive systems. A balanced microbiome can make it harder for harmful bacteria to thrive.
Tip: Include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables in your diet. Or take probiotic supplements to boost your body’s natural defenses.
5. Apply Heat for Pain Relief
Another UTI home remedy is a heating pad that provides soothing relief from the discomfort caused by UTIs. It helps to alleviate pain and promote relaxation.
Tip: Use a heating pad on the lower abdomen for 15–20 minutes to reduce pain and muscle tension.
When to Contact Your Doctor
While home remedies can help with prevention and symptom relief, some UTI symptoms require immediate medical attention.
Signs to Watch For:
- Fever or chills
- Back or side pain
- Blood in the urine
- Intense, persistent pain
- Symptoms lasting more than a few days
More information about UTIs
What is a urinary tract infection?
A urinary tract infection is an infection in your urinary system, which includes your kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria, and they usually affect the bladder and urethra.
UTI Symptoms
Recognizing a urinary tract infection early can help you seek appropriate treatment. Common UTI symptoms include:
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Burning sensation during urination
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Pelvic pain
- Small amounts of urine passed frequently
- Blood in urine (in more severe cases)
- Lower abdominal discomfort or pressure
Common Causes of UTIs
Several factors can increase the risk of developing a urinary tract infection:
- Bacterial invasion, typically from E. coli
- Sexual activity
- Improper bathroom hygiene
- Hormonal changes
- Weakened immune system
- Use of certain birth control methods
- Menopause
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cranberry juice good for UTI?
Yes, cranberry juice can help prevent UTIs by making it harder for bacteria to stick to the urinary tract walls. Not all cranberry juice works, though! Choose unsweetened juice or opt for cranberry capsules for the best results.
How quickly can home remedies help with UTI symptoms?
While some relief can be immediate, persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Are UTI home remedies a substitute for antibiotics?
Not at all. Home remedies can support prevention and mild symptoms, but antibiotics are necessary for treating active infections.
Can UTIs go away on their own?
Mild UTIs might resolve without antibiotics, but it’s safer to consult a doctor to avoid complications.
Are there other home remedies for UTIs?
Yes! Along with the remedies listed above, maintaining good hygiene and wearing breathable cotton underwear can help prevent UTIs.
Bottom Line
UTI home remedies like staying hydrated, practicing good hygiene, using cranberry products, and incorporating probiotics can help reduce your risk and ease symptoms.
However, these remedies work best when combined with professional medical care when needed.
TL;DR
- Drinking plenty of water, practicing good hygiene and urinating regularly can help prevent UTIs.
- UTIs can cause discomfort, inconvenience, and, in some cases, complications if left untreated.
- Cranberry capsules are a better choice than cranberry juice as they provide a more concentrated dose of the active compounds.
- Fermented foods like kefir or kimchi and probiotic supplements can help manage UTI symptoms.
- Home remedies help support mild symptoms, but antibiotics are necessary for treating active infections.
