Busting 7 Common UTI Myths

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidney, the bladder, the ureters and the urethra. Most infections occur in the lower urinary tract–the bladder and the urethra. Here are seven myths around UTIs:

Myth 1: Cleaning your vagina with soap and water can prevent a UTI.

Using products to clean the vaginal area cannot help in preventing a UTI, and can worsen the pH and bacterial balance. Washing, douching or using cleansing wipes in the vagina is not required. However, gently wash the exterior portion of your genitals with soap and water.

Myth 2: If your urine has a strange odour or is cloudy, then you have a UTI.

Studies suggest that the smell of urine and the clarity is not an accurate way to diagnose a UTI because it depends on the amount of water you drink and what you eat. Symptoms of UTI such as painful urination, abnormal discharge and blood in the urine are the main ways to detect a UTI.

Myth 3: Only women get UTIs.

Women might have greater chances of getting a UTI, but men, non-binary and transgender individuals can get UTIs too. Additionally, people of any age group and pregnant women can experience UTIs.

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Myth 4: Only sexually active people can get a UTI.

Although sexual intercourse can heighten the risk of getting a UTI, there are many other known reasons to get a UTI such as douching and having diabetes. These can easily trigger a UTI.

Myth 5: A UTI can’t recover on its own.

Studies have shown that 25% to 42% women are able to heal from a UTI without antibiotics depending on its complexity. But it is prudent to see a medical practitioner and not let the untreated UTI fester into a serious infection.

Myth 6: Drinking cranberry extract or juice can prevent and treat a UTI.

Cranberry is the go-to fruit for preventing UTIs as it has proanthocyanidins which does not let bacteria stick to the walls of the bladder. But, studies have shown little evidence that cranberry products significantly help with UTIs.

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Myth 7: UTIs are the only conditions which cause painful urination, increased frequency and urgency to urinate.

There are other conditions such sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), interstitial cystitis (chronic condition causing bladder pressure, bladder and pelvic pain), and dietary changes can look like the symptoms of a UTI. A urine culture is essential to ensure a proper diagnosis.

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