Hello lovely.
Of course, UTI’s can be caused by bacteria from the rectum and although it’s more doubtful that they would be from the end of the pouch, you cannot rule out anything with regard to the source of bacteria. If you keep getting UTIs and regularly need treatment, your GP may give you a repeat prescription for antibiotics.
Treating recurring UTIs
If your UTI comes back any time after treatment, you'll usually be prescribed a longer course of antibiotics.
If you keep getting UTIs and regularly need treatment, your GP may give you a repeat prescription for antibiotics. Mild urinary tract infections (UTIs) often pass within a few days. To help ease pain while your symptoms clear up you can: take paracetamol, place a hot water bottle on your tummy, back or between your thighs, rest and drink plenty of fluids – this helps your body to flush out the bacteria; Avoid taking NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin if you have a kidney infection. This may increase the risk of kidney problems;Women have a shorter urethra than men. This means bacteria are more likely to reach the bladder or kidneys and cause an infection. Here are some recommended do’s and don’ts:
Do
• wipe from front to back when you go to the toilet
• try to fully empty your bladder when you pee
• drink plenty of fluids
• take showers instead of baths
• wear loose cotton underwear
• pee as soon as possible after sex
Don't
• do not use perfumed bubble bath, soap or talcum powder
• do not hold your pee in if you feel the urge to go
• do not wear tight, synthetic underwear, such as nylon
• do not wear tight jeans or trousers
• do not use condoms or diaphragms with spermicidal lube on them – try non-spermicidal lube or a different type of contraception
Natural remedies
You could try taking:
• a supplement called D-mannose
• cranberry juice or tablets
• a probiotic called lactobacillus
Research suggests D-mannose might help prevent UTIs in women who are not pregnant.
It's not clear if cranberry products or lactobacillus help.
Be aware that D-mannose and cranberry products can contain a lot of sugar.
The above recommendations are adapted from the NHS website but seem to be good advice.
UTI's are a damned nuisance and I hope you find a solution soon.
Best wishes
Bill