Urinary tract infection is an extremely common disease, especially among women. According to the CFPC (College of Family Physicians of Canada), 1 in 2 women will be affected by this condition during their lifetime. But what is a urinary tract infection and, more importantly, how can you relieve its symptoms naturally? Homeopathy is recommended for women's health and helps reduce or even prevent urinary tract infections.
What is a urinary tract infection?
A "urinary tract infection" is an infection that affects one or more parts of the urinary system, namely the bladder, urethra, ureters, and kidneys. There are three types of urinary tract infections:
- Infectious cystitis : This is the most common urinary tract infection. Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder and urethra caused primarily by the intestinal bacterium Escherichia coli, or E coli. This bacterium, naturally present in the intestine, travels up into the bladder, attaches to the walls, and causes infection.
- Infectious urethritis: This infection is an STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) caused by a bacterium. The infection then only affects the urethra, and not the rest of the urinary system.
- Pyelonephritis : This condition is more serious than the previous two and consists of inflammation of the kidneys caused by bacteria, usually E. coli. It can be the result of untreated or poorly treated cystitis.
Here we'll focus on the most common urinary tract infection: cystitis. This condition occurs almost exclusively in women. In fact, in women, the urethra, the tube that connects the urinary meatus to the bladder, is much shorter than in men. In addition, the anus is closer to the urinary meatus. These two factors facilitate the spread of bacteria from the rectum to the bladder.
The causes There are many reasons for cystitis in women:
- Anatomy, quite simply, as we have just seen
- An incorrect method of wiping after going to the toilet (from back to front) which promotes the transport of bacteria
- Sexual intercourse, which can contribute to the rise of bacteria in the urethra
- The use of a diaphragm as a means of contraception, which exerts pressure on the urethra
- Low frequency of urination, which contributes to the storage of bacteria in the bladder
- Pregnancy, because the baby presses on the bladder and makes it difficult to urinate
- Using tampons during menstruation
- Prolonged sitting
- Underwear and clothing that are too tight
As for the symptoms , they are easily recognizable:
- Burning urination (burning sensation when urinating)
- Frequent need to urinate, even a few drops
- Urgent need to urinate
- Dark, cloudy urine, sometimes containing blood or smelling bad
- Lower abdominal pain
If these symptoms appear, a simple urine test with strips to be carried out at home or at your doctor's office will confirm the diagnosis.
Natural remedies to soothe a urinary tract infection
Cystitis should never be taken lightly. While the infection can be easily treated in its early stages with a dose of antibiotics, it becomes much more complicated to treat if it affects the kidneys and can lead to hospitalization. If you have the slightest doubt, consult your doctor immediately and follow the recommended treatment.
Along with the treatment prescribed by your doctor, natural remedies can help soothe symptoms and promote healing.
We have selected Homeocan remedies for you that are perfectly suited to overcoming a urinary tract infection, simply and naturally:
- Essencia Tea Tree Essential Oil : This essential oil is antibacterial, making it a great ally in your fight against cystitis! To use it, dilute it to a 5% concentration in a carrier oil (for example, 5 drops of tea tree essential oil for 95 drops of carrier oil) then massage your lower abdomen with this natural remedy, 3 times a day.
- The Clay Range : Clay acts as a local pain reliever. To benefit from its benefits, apply a 2 cm thick green clay poultice to your lower abdomen and leave it on for a few minutes. Reapply several times a day.
Our simple tips for preventing a urinary tract infection
Many women suffer from recurrent cystitis, which occurs more than four times a year. Whether this is your case, or you simply want to maximize your chances of avoiding a urinary tract infection, here are some simple tips to follow every day:
- Use a mild soap suitable for intimate hygiene
- Urinate after each sexual act to eliminate bacteria
- Drink at least 2 liters of water every day
- Do not hold your urine for long periods of time
- Restore or maintain healthy intestinal and vaginal flora with probiotics
- Use cotton underwear and avoid tight pants.
- Use homeopathic products
- Regularly consume herbal teas made from plants known for their diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, such as Orthosiphon, Juniper or Echinacea
Homeocan Natural and Homeopathic Remedies How aromatherapy products can soothe the symptoms of urinary tract infections . Combined with the treatment prescribed by your doctor and the simple tips given in this article, they will help you forget about these infections and get back in shape!