Urinary tract infections, or UTIs as they are commonly known, typically occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and multiply in the bladder. Although the urinary system is designed to keep out such microscopic invaders, these defences sometimes fail. When that happens, a full-blown infection in the urinary tract can occur.

UTIs are more common in women, and many women experience more than one infection during their lifetimes. For about 20 per cent of women, the infection becomes recurrent, and some will suffer from three or more UTIs a year.

Where do they come from?

Most UTIs are caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is normally found in your intestinal tract. Problems only arise when this ordinary bacteria is present in high numbers in places where it shouldn't be, like your urinary system.

What happens?

When normal E. coli gets into your urinary tract and multiplies, you experience the usual signs and symptoms of a UTI, including:

• Burning with urination
• Frequent urges to urinate
• Lower abdominal pain or aching
• Blood in your urine (sometimes, but not always)
• Cloudy urine

Reduce the risk

The most important factor in the overall health of your urinary tract is drinking plenty of fresh water every day.

Women can also take these hygiene steps to maintain a healthy urinary tract:

• Urinate when you feel the need
• Wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from entering your urethra
• Take showers instead of baths
• Use only white, unscented toilet paper to avoid potential dye reactions.

Treatment options

In most cases, the treatment recommended by conventional medicine is antibiotics. For those with recurrent infections, low doses of antibiotics may be prescribed daily for six months or more. Although you should always check with your doctor before discontinuing any antibiotic course of treatment, there are some natural alternatives to consider.

Many people are aware of taking cranberry to support urinary tract health, and this is because the active ingredient in cranberry is D-mannose, which aids the flushing out of bacteria.

Healthy and free

Lighthouse Cranberry and D-Mannose contain both ingredients in a concentrated form to support urinary tract and bladder health.

Individuals with urinary tract stones and those on warfarin therapy should limit their intake of these foods and beverages. Not recommended for pregnant or lactating women. If there is blood in the urine, seek medical treatment immediately. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, or if symptoms persist, consult a healthcare professional prior to use. Always read the label and take as directed. Lighthouse Health Distributors Limited, Hamilton.

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