Natural Ways to Manage and Avoid UTIs

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common infections, particularly among women. They can be uncomfortable and sometimes even debilitating, with symptoms ranging from a constant sense of urgency, frequent urination to pain in the lower abdomen.

In Western Medicine, antibiotics have been the go-to treatment for UTIs. However, we’re seeing that repeated use of antibiotics can lead to significant health challenges, including gut dysbiosis, antibiotic resistance and a host of auto-immune issues due to the weakening the body’s natural defences, making it more difficult to prevent recurrent UTIs.

Fortunately, there are natural strategies to manage and avoid UTIs. These approaches,
combined with a deeper understanding of the vaginal microbiome, offer a holistic way to protect against recurrent infections.

Understanding UTIs and Antibiotic Overuse

A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria, usually *Escherichia coli* (E. coli), enter the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder. The standard medical response to a UTI is to prescribe antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria causing the infection. While antibiotics may clear the infection, they come with a whole host of drawbacks. Repeated or excessive antibiotic use can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to a condition called *dysbiosis*. Dysbiosis is when the delicate balance between good and bad bacteria in the gut is disrupted, often resulting in digestive issues, weakened immunity, and an increased risk of infections like Candida (yeast overgrowth).

Moreover, the use of antibiotics for UTIs can also contribute to the growing public health issue of antibiotic resistance. As bacteria become resistant to antibiotics, it becomes more challenging to treat infections, leading to longer recovery times and more severe symptoms and ultimately bacteria that will not respond to antibiotics at all.

The Importance of the Vaginal Microbiome

One of the most critical, yet often overlooked, factors in preventing UTIs is maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome. The vaginal microbiome is a unique ecosystem of microorganisms that play a vital role in protecting against infections, including UTIs.

Healthy vaginal flora, particularly *Lactobacillus* species, help maintain an acidic pH in the vagina, which inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria like *E. coli*. When the vaginal microbiome is disrupted—often due to antibiotics, hormonal changes, or lifestyle factors—this protective barrier weakens, making the urinary tract more susceptible to infections.

According to Dr. Peta Wright, a Holistic Gynecologist and expert in women’s health, maintaining a balanced vaginal microbiome is crucial for overall reproductive and urinary health and that nurturing this ecosystem can reduce the frequency of UTIs and other vaginal infections.

Natural Ways to Manage and Prevent UTIs

Managing and preventing UTIs naturally involves addressing the root cause rather than merely treating the symptoms. By focusing on restoring the balance of bacteria in the body—particularly in the gut and vaginal microbiome—it's possible to reduce the likelihood of infections. Here are several effective natural strategies:

1. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent UTIs. Staying hydrated helps to flush bacteria out of the urinary tract, preventing them from adhering to the bladder wall. Drinking water also dilutes the urine, making it less irritating to the bladder.

2. Probiotics for Gut and Vaginal Health

Probiotics are essential in maintaining a healthy microbiome, both in the gut and the vagina. They help restore the balance of good bacteria, which can be disrupted by antibiotics or hormonal changes. Metagenics Ultra Flora Femme is a probiotic specifically designed to support women’s vaginal and urinary tract health. This probiotic contains strains like *Lactobacillus reuteri* and *Lactobacillus rhamnosus*, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy vaginal pH and preventing harmful bacteria from colonizing the urinary tract. Studies show that regular use of probiotics can help reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs by restoring the balance of beneficial bacteria in the vaginal flora making it difficult for the bad bacteria that cause UTI’s to re-colonise the vagina – basically when the good bacteria move in there’s no room for the bad ones!

In her research into the vaginal microbiome presented at the 2023 Metagenics Women’s Health Congress Renee Kucyk explained the necessity of a balanced vaginal microbiome, noting that a well-maintained flora, achieved by supplementing with Ultra Flora Femme is essential to preventing recurrent infections.

3. Herbal Supplements for UTI Prevention

Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to prevent and manage UTIs naturally. One such remedy is Metagenics Uroplex (Sanjin). Uroplex contains a blend of traditional herbs like Sanjin, which has been used in Chinese medicine to support urinary tract health. This formula helps to soothe the bladder lining and reduce inflammation, making it harder for bacteria to adhere to the walls of the bladder and urinary tract.

Uroplex’s combination of anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial herbs helps prevent bacteria from multiplying and causing infections, providing a natural alternative to antibiotics. It can be taken regularly as part of a preventive strategy or at the first sign of a UTI to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.

4. Maintain Good Hygiene Practices

Practicing good hygiene is critical to preventing UTIs. Wiping from front to back after using the restroom can prevent the spread of bacteria from the rectal area to the urethra. Urinating before and after sexual intercourse can also help flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urinary tract during intercourse. Wearing breathable, cotton underwear and avoiding tight clothing can also help maintain a healthy environment in the vaginal area. Synthetic fabrics and tight clothing can trap moisture, which creates an ideal environment for harmful bacteria to thrive.

5. Support Hormonal Balance

Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during menopause, can affect the vaginal microbiome and increase the risk of UTIs. A decrease in estrogen levels can lead to thinning of the vaginal and urethral lining, making it easier for bacteria to invade. Supporting hormonal balance through diet, supplements, and lifestyle changes can help maintain a healthy vaginal environment.

Dr. Peta Wright advises that women, especially during menopause, should consider supplements like phytoestrogens or natural hormone replacement therapies to support the vaginal and urinary tract’s health. Foods rich in estrogen-like compounds, such as flaxseeds and soy, can also help maintain a healthy balance of hormones.

6. Cranberry Extract

Cranberry extract has long been used as a natural remedy for preventing UTIs. Cranberries contain compounds called proanthocyanidins, which can prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder. While cranberry juice can be helpful, it’s often high in sugar, so cranberry supplements are a more effective way to prevent recurrent infections.

By taking a proactive approach to urinary health, it’s possible to manage and avoid UTIs without over-relying on antibiotics. Supporting the body’s natural defences through hydration, probiotics, herbal supplements like Metagenics Uroplex (Sanjin) and Ultra Flora Femme, and proper hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of infections. Understanding the importance of the vaginal microbiome and protecting its delicate balance are also key steps in preventing recurrent UTIs. #UTIPrevention #NaturalUTICare #UTIRecovery #HealthyBladder #UTIRemedy #BladderHealth

If you need support in better managing UTI infections , you can book an appointment with Dr. Bianca Beaumont, Chiropractor & Holistic healthcare provider, located at Allied Health building, 64 Glenferrie road, Malvern.
Follow Dr. Bianca on Instagram @happyhealthygratefulchiro.

To Book an appointment click on the button below.