Drink plenty of water every day to stay hydrated. Do not hold back urine and urinate when you feel the need. Women should wipe from front to back to avoid bacteria from getting in the vagina or urethra. Clean the genital area before and after sex, and urinate after sex. Women should avoid using feminine hygiene sprays or scented products. Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes to help keep the area around the urethra dry.