Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are pretty much the worst thing ever.
But knowledge is power, so here's everything you need to know so you can try to avoid them, treat them, and make them a little less terrible.
1.
UTIs happen when bacteria makes its way into your bladder via your urethra.
2.
Getting one or two a year is pretty normal if you have a vagina.
3.
If you have a penis, though, UTIs are much less common and might be a sign of a bigger problem, especially if you're young.
4.
The most common symptoms are frequent and super painful urination.
5.
But you should always get the infection confirmed by a doctor — to get antibiotics and to make sure it isn't something else.
6.
And get to the doctor ASAP if your symptoms go beyond frequent and painful urination.
7.
Sex is a common culprit — especially a lot of sex.
8.
But there are other things that can cause it, like poor hygiene ~down there~.
9.
Exercise can play a part, too.
10.
There's not a ton of definitive data out there about preventing UTIs, but that doesn't mean there aren't things that might work for you.
11.
You've probably heard that chugging cranberry juice helps prevent UTIs, but that's not really the best option.
12.
Some people find that vitamin C supplements help, too.
13.
There are some other products that say they can prevent UTIs, but you might want to take those claims with a grain of salt.
14.
Peeing right after sex can't hurt, either.
15.
Same with drinking lots of water.
16.
Your birth control might also be contributing to recurrent UTIs.
17.
Once you have a UTI, an over-the-counter urinary pain reliever can help make things less miserable.
Obviously, though, if anything seems off or you're getting UTIs all the damn time, check in with your doctor.
Happy (and painless) peeing!
