Bladder Infections & Menopause

After menopause, many woman develop bladder and urinary tract infections, also called urethritis and cystitis. Because a woman's hormone levels are unbalanced, her natural vaginal moisture is increased, leaving her more susceptible to infection.

Prevention/Solution

• Drinking eight glasses of water a day and getting the recommended daily dose of vitamin C--200 to 400 mg--will help prevent infection.

Antibiotics

• Doctors can prescribe highly effective antibiotics, such as Trimethoprim, to clear up the infection.

Cranberries

• Cranberries and pure cranberry juice are highly acidic, and ingesting large amounts can help clear up bladder infections.

Urinate after Sex

• Urinating after sex can help decrease the risk of bacteria being transmitted into your body.

Wipe Front to Back

• Wiping front to back will help prevent bacteria from your anus from being transferred to your vaginal area.