Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are incredibly common. They affect millions of people in the UK every year. Many wonder if not drinking enough water can lead to these painful infections.
The short answer? Dehydration doesn’t directly cause UTIs. But it does make them much more likely to happen.
How Dehydration Increases UTI Risk
When you don’t drink enough water, your body produces less urine. This means you don’t empty your bladder as often as you should.
Here’s where the problem starts. Bacteria can enter your urinary tract at any time. Normally, regular urination flushes these bacteria out before they cause trouble. But when you’re dehydrated, the bacteria have more time to multiply and stick to the walls of your bladder.
Think of it like this. Your urinary system needs regular flushing to stay clean. Without enough water, that cleaning system doesn’t work properly.
What Actually Causes UTIs?
UTIs happen when bacteria, usually E. coli, get into your urinary tract. These bacteria typically come from your digestive system.
The bacteria travel up through the urethra and into the bladder. Once there, they multiply and cause an infection. This leads to the burning, frequent urination, and discomfort that UTI sufferers know all too well.
Women are more prone to UTIs than men. This is because women have a shorter urethra, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.
Signs You Might Have a UTI
Common symptoms include:
- A burning sensation when you urinate
- Needing to urinate frequently
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Pain in your lower abdomen
- Feeling generally unwell
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to get tested. A Urine Infection Test (including Cystitis) UTI can help you identify whether you have an infection quickly and easily.
How Much Water Should You Drink?
Health experts recommend drinking six to eight glasses of water daily. That’s about 1.2 litres for most adults.
You might need more if you exercise regularly or it’s hot outside. Your urine should be pale yellow. If it’s dark, you probably need to drink more.
Don’t wait until you feel thirsty. By the time you notice thirst, you’re already slightly dehydrated.
Other Ways to Prevent UTIs
Staying hydrated is important, but it’s not the only prevention method.
Urinate regularly and don’t hold it in for long periods. Always empty your bladder completely. Urinate after sexual activity to flush out any bacteria.
For women, wipe from front to back after using the toilet. This prevents bacteria from spreading from the bowel to the urethra.
Avoid irritating feminine products like douches or powders. These can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria.
When to Seek Help
UTIs need proper treatment. If left untreated, the infection can spread to your kidneys. This becomes much more serious.
See your GP if you have UTI symptoms. They may prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection.
Testing at home first can save you time. A simple urine test can confirm whether you have an infection before you book an appointment.
The Bottom Line
Dehydration doesn’t directly cause UTIs. But it creates the perfect conditions for bacteria to thrive in your urinary tract.
Drinking plenty of water is one of the easiest ways to reduce your risk. It keeps your urinary system flushed and healthy.
Combined with good hygiene habits, proper hydration can help keep painful UTIs at bay. Your body will thank you for it.
If you suspect you have a UTI, don’t wait. Get tested and seek treatment promptly. The sooner you address it, the quicker you’ll feel better.
