Healthcare Professionals
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common — more than half of all women will have a symptomatic UTI in their lifetime — but so is UTI misinformation. Let’s set the record straight and bust some of the most common UTI myths with facts.
Common UTI myths — busted
MythYou could have prevented that UTI.
FactCut yourself a break — UTIs aren’t 100% preventable. There are ways to lower your UTI risk, but sometimes an infection happens anyway. If one strikes, get treatment from your healthcare provider; while you wait, you can ease symptoms with Cystex Urinary Pain Relief Tablets. Afterward, support your urinary health by drinking plenty of fluids, urinating before and after sex, wiping front to back, and taking Cystex Urinary Health Maintenance daily.
MythSex causes UTIs.
FactBacteria cause UTIs — but sex can be an aider and abettor. During sex, bacteria from the genital and anal areas can be pushed into the urethra, where they can trigger a UTI, bladder infection, or kidney infection. To lower the risk, stay hydrated and urinate before and after sex. More on sex and UTIs here.
MythBirth control causes UTIs.
FactNot all birth control affects UTI risk. In some women, diaphragms, condoms, and spermicides can cause irritation that raises the chance of a UTI. If you’re prone to UTIs, ask your healthcare provider about other options — plenty aren’t linked to UTIs.
MythCranberry juice can cure a UTI.
FactCranberry juice and other cranberry products can’t treat or cure a UTI — only a prescription antibiotic can cure an established infection. Cranberries may help prevent UTIs, though: research found women who drank at least one glass of berry juice a day were about 34% less likely to develop a UTI, possibly because berries contain compounds that help keep bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract. One easy way to get more cranberry is Cystex Urinary Health Maintenance — one tablespoon a day delivers cranberry plus:
- Antioxidants — to help protect cells and support the immune system
- Antalkalines — to help maintain healthy urine and reduce inflammation
- Anti-adherents — to help keep bad bacteria from sticking around
- Prebiotics — to help promote healthy bacteria
MythUTIs are a “woman’s” problem.
FactWomen get more UTIs, but men get them too — especially over age 50. UTIs in men are often more complicated, usually with another factor behind them like a kidney stone or an enlarged prostate. Other risk factors include poorly controlled diabetes, a recent catheter, or conditions that make it hard to fully empty the bladder. Just as UTIs aren’t only a women’s problem, Cystex isn’t only for women — both Cystex Urinary Health Maintenance and Cystex Pain Relief & UTI Bacteria Control Tablets are for everyone.
MythIf I don’t feel a “burning” sensation when I pee, I don’t have a UTI.
FactBurning is just one of many UTI symptoms. Others include a frequent or intense urge to urinate (even when little comes out), pain or pressure in the lower abdomen or back, cloudy or bloody urine, strong-smelling urine, and feeling tired, shaky, or feverish. If you think you have a UTI, see a healthcare provider — only a prescription antibiotic can cure it, and an untreated UTI can progress to a bladder or kidney infection. Learn the symptoms here.
MythUTIs are contagious.
FactYou can’t give your partner a UTI. UTIs happen when common body bacteria get somewhere they shouldn’t (the urethra and beyond) — not through person-to-person spread. To lower the risk, both partners should urinate before and after sex and stay well hydrated. More prevention tips here.
It’s never too late to learn the facts — we hope this boosted your UTI IQ. Wishing you wellness down there and everywhere.
If you experience UTI symptoms like a frequent urge to urinate, a burning feeling while urinating, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, or pelvic pain, contact your doctor right away. The only cure for a UTI is a prescription antibiotic.