How to resolve AdBlock issue? Dr. Akosua Addai Advocates Hygiene Practices to Prevent UTIs
Sunday, 24 November 2024 | Article
A medical doctor at Legon Hospital, Dr. Akosua A.A. Addai, has emphasized the importance of proper hygiene practices in reducing the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Speaking on Joy Prime's morning show, she advised men and women to clean up and urinate immediately after sexual intercourse, a simple step proven by science to minimize the likelihood of contracting UTIs.
Dr. Addai highlighted that irregular urination and neglecting cleanliness before and after sexual activity are significant contributors to UTIs. She stated, “It’s always better to clean up before and after sex. Even after sex, you’re supposed to urinate; it helps. Science has shown that it really helps reduce the risk of that. It’s very important, and drink a lot of water.”
UTIs occur when bacteria, often from the skin or rectum, enter the urethra and infect the urinary tract. While these infections are treatable, early detection and preventive measures are crucial. Dr. Addai explained that the human immune system naturally harbors bacteria, and failing to maintain proper hygiene can escalate bacterial growth, weakening the immune system and making individuals more vulnerable to infections.
She also pointed out that people with poor hygiene, unhealthy habits like smoking and excessive drinking, and those living with co-morbidities such as diabetes or hypertension are at higher risk of contracting UTIs. For these individuals, extra care is essential to protect their health.
Pregnant women, in particular, face unique challenges in maintaining hygiene due to physical and hormonal changes. Dr. Addai called on husbands to assist their pregnant partners in ensuring proper hygiene. “They have big bellies, so hygiene is a problem, and they’re always tired. It’s quite stressful for them to bend and wash. Help the women because you should understand their state so they’re able to have their hygiene at a very good place where they don't get these infections,” she urged.
Dr. Addai further encouraged pregnant women and other UTI patients to visit hospitals regularly for checkups. Early diagnosis allows for the identification of specific infections and the prescription of appropriate antibiotics, typically for a duration of five to seven days.
UTIs are most commonly bladder infections, but they can affect other parts of the urinary tract if untreated. Symptoms include frequent urination, pain or burning sensations while urinating, and abdominal discomfort. Dr. Addai emphasized that while the infections are common, they can be easily managed with timely medical intervention and adherence to good hygiene practices.
Her advice serves as a reminder of the importance of simple preventive measures, such as drinking plenty of water, maintaining proper hygiene, and seeking medical attention when necessary. These actions not only help reduce the risk of UTIs but also promote overall health and well-being.
Dr. Addai highlighted that irregular urination and neglecting cleanliness before and after sexual activity are significant contributors to UTIs. She stated, “It’s always better to clean up before and after sex. Even after sex, you’re supposed to urinate; it helps. Science has shown that it really helps reduce the risk of that. It’s very important, and drink a lot of water.”
UTIs occur when bacteria, often from the skin or rectum, enter the urethra and infect the urinary tract. While these infections are treatable, early detection and preventive measures are crucial. Dr. Addai explained that the human immune system naturally harbors bacteria, and failing to maintain proper hygiene can escalate bacterial growth, weakening the immune system and making individuals more vulnerable to infections.
She also pointed out that people with poor hygiene, unhealthy habits like smoking and excessive drinking, and those living with co-morbidities such as diabetes or hypertension are at higher risk of contracting UTIs. For these individuals, extra care is essential to protect their health.
Pregnant women, in particular, face unique challenges in maintaining hygiene due to physical and hormonal changes. Dr. Addai called on husbands to assist their pregnant partners in ensuring proper hygiene. “They have big bellies, so hygiene is a problem, and they’re always tired. It’s quite stressful for them to bend and wash. Help the women because you should understand their state so they’re able to have their hygiene at a very good place where they don't get these infections,” she urged.
Dr. Addai further encouraged pregnant women and other UTI patients to visit hospitals regularly for checkups. Early diagnosis allows for the identification of specific infections and the prescription of appropriate antibiotics, typically for a duration of five to seven days.
UTIs are most commonly bladder infections, but they can affect other parts of the urinary tract if untreated. Symptoms include frequent urination, pain or burning sensations while urinating, and abdominal discomfort. Dr. Addai emphasized that while the infections are common, they can be easily managed with timely medical intervention and adherence to good hygiene practices.
Her advice serves as a reminder of the importance of simple preventive measures, such as drinking plenty of water, maintaining proper hygiene, and seeking medical attention when necessary. These actions not only help reduce the risk of UTIs but also promote overall health and well-being.