UTI Home Testing Kits

Women are more likely to develop a UTI because they have a shorter urethra than men, so bacteria has more of a chance to get into the bladder or kidney.

The most common reason why you might get a UTI is when the bacteria from poo enters the urinary tract.

Other reasons are sex, pregnancy, if you have a catheter inserted, kidney stones, dehydration, a weakened immune system and not keeping the genital area clean and dry.

A UTI itself isn’t dangerous, and most of the time it can be resolved without treatment.

However, the main danger of a UTI is that the infection may spread from the bladder to the kidneys, which can be serious if not treated.

Cranberry juice or cranberry supplements are popular natural remedies to treat and prevent a UTI - but are they effective?

Cranberries contain phenolic acids and flavonoids, which may prevent bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract, reduce inflammation and monitor gut bacteria, all of which may be useful if you’re suffering from a UTI.

Cranberry juice will not, however, clear up your infection, so it’s always best to speak to your doctor so they can prescribe antibiotics if necessary.

Antibiotics aren’t available over the counter so if you think you need some for your UTI you’ll have to ask your doctor.

However, it’s important to note that mild cases of UTIs will usually clear up by themselves within a few days, so make sure to take the time to consider whether your infection is severe enough to need a doctor’s visit.