How to Prevent Bladder Infections in Girls

A bladder infection is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that occurs when bacteria enter the bladder by way of the urethra, or the internal tube connected to the bladder that releases urine from the body. Girls are more likely than boys to get a bladder infection since their urethra is shorter and bacteria can more easily make their way to a girl's bladder. Symptoms of urinary tract infections include the frequent urge to urinate and painful, burning sensations during urination. Girls should learn to take the necessary precautions to prevent bladder infections.

Things You'll Need

• Mild soap
• Loose-fitting pants
• Loose-fitting cotton underwear

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Instructions

• 1

  Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge to urinate and empty your bladder completely. Urinary tract infections can occur among girls who hold their urine in instead of going to the bathroom when they need to.

• 2

  Drink plenty of water daily so that you can flush out your system and keep your bladder active. Refrain from drinking caffeinated or carbonated drinks. These types of drinks can irritate your bladder.

• 3

  Wipe your vulva gently from front to back with toilet paper after going to the bathroom. Wiping back to front can spread bacteria from the anus into the urethra.

• 4

  Wash your genital region each day with lukewarm water and mild soap or no soap.

• 5

  Take baths without using bubble bath or bath salts. These products can bother your vaginal area.

• 6

  Keep your vulva clean and dry and change out of a wet bathing soon as soon as you are done swimming or playing in the water.

• 7

  Wear loose-fitting pants and loose-fitting, breathable cotton underwear instead of tight nylon.

• 8

  Change tampons and menstrual pads on a regular basis while menstruating and refrain from using feminine sprays or douches or wearing menstrual products when you are not menstruating.

• 9

  Urinate before and after sexual intercourse if you are sexually active.