Women who have experienced UTIs know the drill—a burning sensation when using the restroom, stronger urges to pee, lower-back pain, and other uncomfortable symptoms. But what causes UTIs in the first place? UTIs happen when bacteria gets pushed into the urethra, or when bacteria in the bladder multiplies to excessive levels. Ninety percent of infections are bacterial, which is why doctors often prescribe an antibiotic for treatment. Keep reading to learn more about how to support your body’s vaginal and urinary tract health.

Natural Ways to Prevent UTIs

Here are four ways to help prevent UTIs.

Stay hydrated: The more you drink, the more diluted your urine becomes, which may help discourage bacteria from growing in the urethra.
Grab some vitamin C: Studies show that supplementing with vitamin C makes urine more acidic, which makes it less hospitable for unwelcome bacteria.
Support good bacteria: Not all bacteria is bad. In fact, researchers have found that supplementation with Lactobacilli can protect your body from urinary tract pathogens. And probiotic bacteria, like the type found in fermented foods or kombucha, support healthy overall bacterial levels in the body.
Wear breathable undergarments: If you’re prone to infections, wear breathable undergarments made with natural materials like cotton, and change out of sweaty clothes soon after finishing a tough workout.

Top Vaginal & Urinary Tract Brands

For vaginal and urinary tract health, these top Thrive Market brands are here to help.

Hum Nutrition

Nutrition brand HUM effortlessly bridges beauty and wellness with scientifically-formulated vitamins and supplements that address a range of ultra-specific skin, body, and lifestyle goals.

Private Party

This daily probiotic and cranberry supplement (featuring three different strains) may help support vaginal and urinary tract health, and a boosted microbiome. Thrive

Market member Kaylie from Virginia says “I always love taking a probiotic. Just a plus that this one also has a focus towards a woman’s specific needs/concerns. Love love love.”

Garden of Life

From probiotics to protein powders, Garden of Life crafts innovative and holistic supplements for the whole family—all without GMOs.

Probiotics for Urinary Tract

Dr. Perlmutter created this unique formula with 500mg of clinically studied organic whole cranberry and 16 strains of probiotics with 50 Billion CFU. The supplement also includes vitamin D3, which may support healthy urinary tract function.

Gaia Herbs

Since 1987, Gaia Herbs has nurtured healthy connections between plants and people. Certified Organic supplements use gentle extraction methods to maintain the purity and potency of individual plants.

Cranberry Concentrate

Made from organic cranberries, Gaia's concentrate is a convenient alternative to eating whole cranberries and doesn't have the bitterness (or added sugar) you can get from drinking cranberry juice.

Women’s Health Tips from Thrive Market

Read up on women’s health on the Thrive Market blog.

Surprising Causes of UTIs

From your diet to allergy medicine, check out this post to discover four surprising causes of UTIs.

Women’s Health at Every Stage

Prenatal months, menopause, and more. This post explores tips for vibrant health at every age and stage, and shares some of the top Thrive Market brands to support you along the way.

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.