How to prevent UTIs: habits that help and what the evidence says

By the Medsmingle Team · Updated 13 November 2026

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common, especially in women: about half of women will have at least one. If you get them often, a few habits can lower your risk, but a UTI itself usually needs antibiotics from a doctor.

Symptoms of a UTI

• Burning or pain when you pee
• Needing to pee often or urgently, passing only small amounts
• Cloudy, bloody or strong-smelling urine
• Pain or pressure in the lower belly

Habits that help prevent UTIs

• Drink enough water. Adequate fluids may help. Ask for an individual fluid target if you have heart or kidney disease or a fluid restriction.
• Pee after sex if convenient, but this does not guarantee prevention.
• Wipe front to back after using the toilet.
• Don’t hold it in for long periods.
• Avoid irritating products such as douches, scented sprays and spermicides.
• After menopause, ask your doctor about vaginal estrogen, which can reduce repeat UTIs.

Do supplements help?

• Cranberry products: may modestly reduce repeat UTIs in some women; they don’t treat an active infection.
• D-mannose: early studies were promising, but a large 2024 trial found no benefit over placebo.
• Herbal products: do not rely on them to prevent or treat an infection.

See a doctor if you have UTI symptoms

A clinician assesses symptoms and may use urine tests; treatment depends on your circumstances. Get urgent care if you have fever, chills, back or side pain, nausea or vomiting, or blood in your urine, as these can be signs of a kidney infection. Also see a doctor promptly if you’re pregnant, male, or a child has UTI symptoms.

If you have 2 or more UTIs in 6 months, ask your doctor about further tests and prevention options.

Frequently asked questions

Can a UTI go away on its own?

Mild UTIs sometimes clear without antibiotics, but untreated infections can spread to the kidneys. It’s safest to see a doctor.

Does cranberry juice cure a UTI?

No. It may help prevent repeat infections for some women but won’t treat an infection that has started.

Why do I keep getting UTIs?

Common reasons include sex, some contraceptives, menopause and not drinking enough. A doctor can check for other causes.

More in our Everyday Health guide: all our articles and products on this topic in one place.

For questions about a prescription or symptoms, speak with your own doctor or pharmacist. For website enquiries, contact our team.

This article is for general information only and isn’t a substitute for advice from a doctor or pharmacist. Supplements are not evaluated by the FDA to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Source

NIDDK: bladder infection treatment and prevention.