Bladder control issues are common in women, especially those who have had children, and especially as they get older. It's something I advise a large proportion of my patients on. When it comes to preventing UTIs, proper hygiene goes a long way, but some women are simply prone to these things at a much higher rate. Regular cranberry juice consumption is the best preventative I know that doesn't come with added side effects. While you can take supplements derived from cranberry juice, these tend to be hard on the kidneys over time. Another therapy to consider is pelvic floor exercises. These can help with a variety of urinary and related issues.
Good supplements are pumpkin seed extract (for urethral tone), magnesium (helps with bladder muscle relaxation) and soy isoflavones if you have post-menopausal urgency. Cranberry 36mg PACs and D-mannose for preventing UTI recurrence. Opt for products with clear doses, not proprietary blends. UTI symptoms can start with burning, urgency, frequency, and cloudy urine; if it's spreading, then there will be back pain or fever. To prevent UTIs, ensure proper hydration (1.5-2L/day), urination after intercourse, and abstain from spermicides. For recurrences, you might consider cranberry, D-mannose, probiotics, or vaginal estrogen (postmenopause). My 3-2-1 hydration rule (three cups of water first thing in the morning, two before lunch and one after 6), cuts down night trips within a week. Supplements may also reduce the frequency by 1-2 occurrences..improving your mobility, confidence and sleep. Also, preventing a single UTI infection each year can decrease antibiotic use and inflammation. Combining supplements with pelvic-floor training, bladder training, and hydration is where lasting changes really happen.