Which practice best reduces the risk of urinary tract infections?

• A. Drinking at least 2 liters of water daily.
• B. Wiping back to front after urination.
• C. Urinating infrequently to concentrate urine.
• D. Using scented feminine products.

Answer: (A)

Staying well hydrated helps keep the urinary tract healthy because regular, ample urine flow physically flushes bacteria out of the urethra and dilutes urine, making it harder for bacteria to grow. Drinking around two liters of water daily supports steady urine production and the flushing action that reduces infection risk. Wiping from back to front can move bacteria toward the urethral opening, increasing risk. Urinating infrequently allows urine to sit in the bladder longer, giving bacteria more time to multiply. Scented feminine products can irritate the area and disrupt the normal balance of flora, potentially raising the chance of infection.