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Preventive Measures for UTIs in Individuals with Incontinence

Preventive Measures for UTIs in Individuals with Incontinence

Individuals with incontinence are at a higher risk of UTIs due to prolonged skin exposure to urine. Preventive measures include maintaining excellent hygiene by gently cleaning the genital area with mild soap and water, drying thoroughly, and using breathable incontinence products. To learn more about it, consult with our urologist, Adel W. Mohamed, MD, FACS at Mohamed & Associates Urology Center. For more information, contact our team of professionals today or visit us online to book your next appointment. We are conveniently located at 507 N Brightleaf Blvd #205, Smithfield, NC 27577.

Preventive Measures for UTIs in Individuals with Incontinence Near Me in Smithfield, NC
Preventive Measures for UTIs in Individuals with Incontinence Near Me in Smithfield, NC

Table of Contents:

What are the best hygiene practices to prevent UTIs in individuals with incontinence?
How often should incontinence pads or adult diapers be changed to prevent UTIs?
Can certain foods or drinks help prevent UTIs in people with incontinence?
What is the importance of regular medical check-ups for preventing UTIs in people with incontinence?

What are the best hygiene practices to prevent UTIs in individuals with incontinence?


A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a condition capable of affecting parts of the urinary system, including the bladder, kidneys, urethra, and ureters. UTIs are usually the result of bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra.

Symptoms associated with UTIs include but are not limited to frequent urges to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, pain in the lower abdomen, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine. Urinary incontinence involves the involuntary leakage of urine, which can range from occasional leaks during stress to a sudden, intense urge to urinate with seemingly no trigger. Incontinence and UTIs can often co-occur as the prolonged presence of moisture and bacteria on the skin associated with incontinence difficulties can heighten susceptibility to the development of a UTI.

The best way to prevent the onset of UTIs in individuals with incontinence is to visit specialists, such as those at Mohamed & Associates Urology Center, for individualized guidance. Proper hygiene practices are the cornerstone of UTI avoidance.

This includes cleaning the genital area regularly and thoroughly to avoid the spread of bacteria. Following incontinence, it is important for the affected area to be cleaned with warm water or wipes and dried to prevent bacterial growth.

Using breathable incontinence products can also help keep the area dry. Choosing appropriate incontinence pads or adult diapers and changing them promptly after they become wet or soiled also aids in minimizing the risk of infection.

How often should incontinence pads or adult diapers be changed to prevent UTIs?


Incontinence pads or adult diapers should be changed frequently to prevent the development of UTIs. In most cases, it is recommended to change these products every 2 to 4 hours or as soon as they become soiled. Changing pads or diapers as needed prevents the prolonged exposure of the skin to moisture and bacteria, which can lead to infections as well as additional discomfort or irritation.

Individuals who use incontinence aids overnight must change them when they wake up. Another way to avoid the build-up of bacteria is to keep the skin clean and ensure thorough cleaning with every pad or diaper change.

Ensuring that the products used fit well and have the appropriate absorption potency can help manage moisture more effectively. Providers at Mohamed & Associates Urology Center can guide patients on the most appropriate incontinence products for their specific needs.

Can certain foods or drinks help prevent UTIs in people with incontinence?


Dietary choices can influence almost all aspects of health and wellness, and that is no different for individuals with incontinence. Certain food and drink choices can play a role in preventing UTIs. Drinking lots of water is a highly effective method one can use to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract, reducing the risk of infection.

Staying hydrated makes it easier for patients to ensure regular urination and dilute the urine to prevent the accumulation of bacteria in the bladder. Foods that are high in vitamin C can facilitate an increase in the acidity of an individual’s urine, which lessens bacterial risks. Foods containing probiotics can also promote a healthy urinary tract for some individuals.

Probiotics work to avoid an imbalance of bacteria in the gut, preventing them from adhering to bladder walls. Bladder irritants such as alcohol and caffeine will have to be avoided or limited to mitigate the risk of developing a UTI.

What is the importance of regular medical check-ups for preventing UTIs in people with incontinence?


Given the heightened risk individuals with incontinence face in developing UTIs, regular medical check-ups are essential. During check-ups, providers at Mohamed & Associates Urology Center can monitor an individual’s overall health as well as identify any factors contributing to worsening incontinence and increasing the risk of UTIs.

These specialists can guide patients on the best practices to manage incontinence, including the appropriate incontinence pads or adult diapers, dietary choices, hygiene practices, and health and lifestyle changes. Healthcare providers can also review and adjust the types and fit of incontinence products being used, ensuring they are effective in managing moisture and preventing skin irritation. By maintaining regular check-ups, individuals with incontinence can better manage their condition and reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs.

Preventative UTI care is available at Mohamed & Associates Urology Center. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 507 N Brightleaf Blvd #205, Smithfield, NC 27577. We serve patients from Smithfield NC, Selma NC, Clayton NC, Princeton NC, Whitley Heights NC, Four Oaks NC, Pine Level NC and Kenly NC.