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12 August 2025

How to Prevent Urinary Tract Infections in Summer

Summer means heat, beach, swimming pools, and longer days. But it's also the season when cases of urinary tract infections (UTIs) increase significantly, especially among women. The combination of heat, dehydration, wet clothing, and typical seasonal habits creates the perfect environment for these infections, which are often recurrent and quite uncomfortable.

In this article, we explain why UTIs are more common in the summer, how to recognize them, and most importantly, what you can do to prevent them.

Why do UTIs increase in summer?

Urinary tract infections are usually caused by bacteria that enter through the urethra and multiply in the bladder. During the summer, several factors encourage this proliferation:

• Increased sweating → the body loses more fluids, and without proper replenishment, urine becomes more concentrated, making irritation and bacterial growth more likely.
• Prolonged use of wet swimsuits → the warm and humid environment favors the growth of bacteria and fungi in the genital area.
• More frequent sexual activity during holidays or travel → friction can facilitate the entry of microorganisms.
• Poor hygiene in public places (beaches, campsites, shared bathrooms).

What are the symptoms of a UTI?

Recognizing the signs early is key to acting quickly:

• Burning or pain during urination
• Urgency to urinate, even with little urine
• Feeling of a full bladder even after urinating
• Cloudy urine, strong odor, or presence of blood
• Pelvic or lower back pain (in more advanced cases)
• Fever (may indicate a kidney infection)

💡 Tip: If you have symptoms, don’t ignore them. The earlier the diagnosis, the simpler and more effective the treatment.

How to prevent UTIs in summer?

1. Hydration is essential

Drinking water throughout the day helps “flush out” the urinary tract, preventing bacterial concentration. Ideally, drink 1.5 to 2 liters per day — more if exposed to heat or exercising.

2. Avoid staying in wet clothes too long

Change your swimsuit after swimming. Moist environments are ideal for microorganism growth.

3. Practice good intimate hygiene

Wash the genital area with water and mild soap. Avoid overuse of perfumed intimate products that may alter protective vaginal flora.

4. Urinate after sexual intercourse

This simple act helps eliminate bacteria that may have entered during contact.

5. Choose cotton underwear

Synthetic fabrics trap heat and moisture, creating an environment prone to infection.

6. Be cautious with pools and hot tubs

Stagnant or chemically treated water can irritate the genital area and increase infection risk.

Who is most at risk?

• Women (especially aged 15–50)
• Pregnant women
• People with recurrent UTIs
• Children learning to use the toilet
• Elderly individuals with reduced mobility or using diapers

When to seek medical attention?

See a healthcare provider if you have symptoms lasting more than 24 hours, fever, blood in the urine, or intense pain. Proper treatment helps prevent complications such as kidney infections and recurrent UTIs.

Conclusion

Summer is to be enjoyed — but without neglecting intimate health. Small habit changes can make a big difference in preventing urinary tract infections and ensure that warm days are associated with well-being and peace of mind.

💡 If you experience persistent symptoms, book an appointment with a general practitioner or urologist. With the Misericórdias Saúde Card, you get access to high-quality healthcare with up to 60% discount.