You can help prevent UTIs if you:

• Drink plenty of water and other noncaffeinated drinks. (Caffeine can cause the body to lose fluids.)
• Do not delay urinating when you feel the need to urinate.
• Use good hygiene when you use the toilet. For example, wipe from front to back to keep rectal bacteria from getting into the vagina and urethra.
• Avoid using irritating cosmetics or chemicals in the area of the vagina and urethra (such as strong soaps, feminine hygiene sprays or douches, or scented napkins or panty liners).
• Urinate soon after sexual intercourse.
• Keep your genital area clean.
• Empty your bladder completely when you urinate.
• Wear all-cotton or cotton-crotch underwear and pantyhose. Change underwear and pantyhose every day.