Why do I keep getting urinary tract infections?

Condition analysis:
Some women are more prone to Urinary Tract Infections than others because the cells in their vaginal areas and in their urethras are more easily invaded by bacteria. Your risk of urinary tract infection also is greater if you're past menopause because thinning of tissue covering the urethra after menopause may make the area less resistant to bacteria.

Irritation or injury to the vagina or urethra caused by sexual intercourse, douching, tampons or feminine deodorants can give bacteria a chance to invade. Using a diaphragm can cause irritation, and can interfere with the bladder's ability to empty, giving bacteria a place to grow. Constipation can lead to high levels of the Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria in the rectum, increasing the risk that they could spread to the urinary tract.

Any abnormality of the urinary tract that blocks the flow of urine, such as a kidney stone, also can lead to an infection. Illnesses that affect the immune system also increase the risk of urinary tract infections.

Practicing good personal hygiene habits, including washing the areas around the bowel, vagina and urethra daily and wiping from front to back, can help avoid spreading bacteria to the urinary tract. Drinking plenty of water daily, urinating when you feel the need, rather than waiting, and urinating after sexual intercourse can help flush the system of bacteria.

Instructions:
Consider Herbal Remedies: You may find some relief from taking the herb uva ursi (bearberry leaf), which is used as a treatment for lower urinary tract infections. But Rivers cautions that it should be taken only for short periods of time - five days or less - as it could cause liver damage. In addition, the herb goldenseal may be used as a remedy for UTIs. It's smart to tell your doctor about this and any other medications or herbs you’re taking, because side effects or drug interactions can sometimes be serious.