Patient/caregiver was instructed on natural defenses against UTI in females as follows:
Acidic environment of vagina:
- The vaginal tract normally has an acidic environment, which prevents growth of microorganisms. Estrogen secretion in females contribute significantly to the vaginal acidic environment.
- Reduced estrogen secretion in menopausal women contribute to alkaline environment in the vaginal tract. This change in the vaginal environment can put them at increased risk for growth of microorganisms, which can easily result in UTI.
Periodical bladder emptying:
- Periodical emptying of bladder can help avoid back-up of urine in the urinary system and frequently wash the bacteria out, thus preventing development of UTI.
- Urinary retention with backed-up urine can offer the bacteria more time to gain hold and thus, is a favorable medium for growth of microorganisms leading to UTI.
