UTIs: Where They Come From, and What You Can Do

Your bladder is burning. Your urination stings. Maybe you even see blood in your urine.... DUN DUN DUNNNN — a urinary tract infection may have stricken!

But how did you get it? And how can you get rid of it naturally? We're coming in hot with some help for you.

What Causes a UTI?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is typically caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract and multiplying, leading to an infection. The most common bacteria responsible for UTIs is Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is naturally present in the gastrointestinal tract but can cause infection when it enters the urinary system. Other bacteria such as Klebsiella, Proteus, and Staphylococcus can also cause UTIs, although they are less common.

Several factors can contribute to the development of a urinary tract infection:

• Bacterial colonization: Bacteria from the digestive tract can reach the urethra and ascend into the bladder, causing infection. This can happen due to improper wiping, sexual intercourse, or other activities that introduce bacteria to the urethral opening.
• Urinary tract abnormalities: Conditions that obstruct or interfere with normal urine flow (like kidney stones or catheters) can increase risk.
• Weakened immune system: Conditions such as diabetes or certain medications can make individuals more susceptible to infection.
• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy and other hormonal shifts can make the urinary tract more vulnerable.
• Sexual activity & hygiene: Intercourse and poor hygiene practices can introduce bacteria.

So What Can You Do?

First up, let's talk prevention!

To reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs), you can follow these preventive measures:

1. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to promote regular urination. This helps flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.

2. Urinate regularly and fully: Avoid holding in urine for prolonged periods as it allows bacteria to multiply.
3. Practice good hygiene: Always wipe front to back after using the toilet to avoid transferring bacteria.
4. Urinate before and after sexual activity: It helps flush out bacteria that may have entered the urethra.
5. Choose appropriate contraception: If prone to UTIs, consider switching to non-spermicidal options.
6. Wear breathable underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothes to reduce moisture buildup.
7. Avoid irritants: Skip strong soaps, douches, or perfumes near the genital area.
8. Take showers instead of baths to minimize exposure to bacteria in still water.
9. Maintain a healthy immune system: Eat well, exercise, and get sufficient sleep.

10. Consider cranberry products: Some studies suggest cranberry juice or supplements may help reduce bacterial adhesion in the urinary tract, though research is ongoing.

But What If You Already Have a UTI?

Here are a few easy, natural steps to help your body recover:

• Drink plenty of water to encourage frequent urination and bacterial flush-out.
• Try unsweetened cranberry juice or supplements for additional urinary support.
• Consume probiotics to help maintain healthy urinary flora.
• Consider D-Mannose supplements to discourage bacterial adhesion.
• Apply gentle heat to the lower abdomen for comfort.

Last Up—

Supercharge any of these approaches to treatment or prevention by taking a SpeedyVite Kidney Supplement. Every herb in our blends is hand-picked for its supportive qualities — gentle diuretics, antioxidants, and natural inflammation fighters. Explore them all in our Kidney Collection — featuring teas, capsules, and drops crafted for balanced urinary support.*

We’ve heard countless stories of people finding comfort and renewed wellness with our teas and supplements — and we’d love to know if they’ve helped you too!

Explore more gentle herbal options for urinary comfort and daily wellness below ↓