Cranberry juice is thought to make the walls of the bladder slippery so that bacteria slide off. However, cranberry juice is probably a better preventative measure than a curative measure. If you have recurrent UTIs, check with your doctor for other self-care measures. Escherichia coli is a normal bacterial inhabitant of the lower intestine, so E. coli can leave the body through the rectum and re-enter through the urethra. My girlfriend has been getting frequent UTIs since we began having sex 3 months ago.
Sexual intercourse can spread bacteria throughout the genital area.
Other factors that may contribute to frequent UTIs include frequent sex, intense sexual activity, spermicidal foams and jellies, a diaphragm, or an allergy to latex in condoms. With age, the bladder becomes less elastic and may not empty completely. The urine may collect and this allows bacteria to grow. Keeping up an activity level, plenty of water, and good nourishment will help. I get frequent UTIs.