9 Things You Probably Didn't Know Can Cause A UTI

When it comes to preventing UTIs, hydration is key. "Dehydration can also cause people to get UTIs," Dr. Sheila Loanzon, MD tells Bustle. Drinking up then "flushing out the urinary system is important to rid the body of toxins," she says. This happens because "when there is minimal urination or drinking of water (not just fluids but actual water)" bacteria builds up, Dr. Loanzon says. Her tips? Drinking 6-8 glasses of water a day and peeing at regular intervals can help.

It's pretty unfair that one bathroom problem can cause another, but it's true. Dr. Shilpi Agarwal, author and MD, tells Bustle that chronic constipation can also be a UTI culprit. "When we are constipated, bacteria has a longer time to breed, and it is harder to empty the bladder completely, so you are more prone to UTIs," she says. But if you're feeling constipated no need to worry — certain foods like broccoli and chia seeds can be a major help in keeping you regular.

Changing body? Your risk factors for UTIs might change too. "Pregnancy can cause UTIs," Loanzon says, "because the normal structural and physiologic changes of the kidneys and urinary tract can cause bacteria to be introduced into the renal system." While it may be difficult to avoid UTIs completely, staying hydrated and sticking to cotton underwear may reduce your risk.

You might love a good yoga pant and thong, but our athleisure habits might be affecting your health more than you realize. Beware of "undergarments that don’t allow your vagina to breathe/hold in bacteria" Dr. Allison Hill, LA OB/GYN tells Bustle. "Especially if you work out in tight clothing!"

These days the IUD and condoms are the talk of the town, but if you're into some less-buzzy birth control methods, you should know that they might put you at risk for UTIs. "Certain types of birth control methods – specifically, diaphragms and spermicides increase the chances of getting a UTI," Hill says. Plus, neither diaphragms nor spermicides prevent STIs, so make sure you have a plan with your healthcare provider about which birth control method is best for you.

Although life can be busy, and a bathroom isn't always close by, try not to hold in your pee. "Holding in your pee can also be a contributing factor [for UTIs] because you’re holding in bacteria that can multiply," Hill says. To prevent this, "ensure you never hold your bladder for more than 6 hours."

This can be particularly risky if you're taking antihistamines for allergies or cold symptoms, because these drugs make "your body reduce fluid release and makes you pee less," Agarwal says. "Because of this, you can also develop UTIs more easily."

So, whether you're just fussy about public bathrooms or dealing with a cold, you have to make sure you pee enough. Gelman once again recommends that you try preventative measures like staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water.

Unfortunately, sex when you have a vagina is a plain-old risk factor for UTIs. "The rubbing near the opening of the urethra and the closeness of bacteria can be problematic," Clinical Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences at Yale University School of Medicine, Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, MD tells Bustle.

You don't need to immediately freak out, though. "That doesn't mean one should give up sex but there is an association, and there are things to do," Minkin says.

For those who have a vagina, it's important to always urinate after sex, Gelman says. Pillow talk can wait.

Another risk factor for UTIs is menopause. This happens "particularly for a postmenopausal woman who is suffering from vaginal dryness, that can set the scene for nastier bacteria to take up residence in her vagina, and lead to more urinary tract infections," says Minkin.

Also, "as women become menopausal there can be an increase in UTIs due to the lack of estrogen present in the vaginal tissue," Loanzon says. Just another reason to understand your body and keep an eye on any changes.

If your UTIs are coming along with a variety of other symptoms like high cholesterol and numbness or tingling, you might be experiencing warning signs of something bigger. UTIs can indicate undiagnosed diabetes because "blood sugar irregularities can make you more susceptible to infections, particularly urine infections," Agarwal says. "If you are consuming tons of sugar, or have symptoms of diabetes (increased thirst, increased urination, increased hunger)," you are more susceptible to UTIs." If you are noticing these symptoms, speaking with your doctor can help you uncover the cause, as well as how to treat it.

Good old go-to's like always wiping front to back after using the bathroom can help us, Gelman says. But if you do believe you have a UTI, talking with your doctor can help treat the infection, and help you to feel like yourself again.