If you are suffering from a UTI, chances are you are like the millions of women worldwide who suffer from repeated attacks. This is usually despite taking numerous courses of antibiotics or using often ineffective over the counter meds- neither of which work in the long term.

Self treatment for urinary tract infections can be more effective than the conventional options. However, it is important to ensure that you are using proven methods. Leaving a UTI untreated can lead to further problems, as the bacteria can potentially migrate up the ureters, causing a potentially serious kidney infection.

Providing you do not exhibit any symptoms of a kidney infection, which can include blood in the urine, severe lower back pain and a high fever accompanied with vomiting, you can try the following tips to get some relief.

* Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily
* use a heat pad or hot water bottle on the abdomen to give gentle pain relief
* Urinate whenever you feel the need, even if it is painful
* Drink a couple of glasses of unsweetened cranberry juice daily
* Take a high strength vitamin C tablet
* Avoid using perfumed products and feminine wipes around the vaginal area, as this can cause further irritation

Other self treatment for urinary tract infections include using dietary means to strengthen the body's ability to fight infection. You should eat a diet which is rich in vitamins and minerals. This means eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables-particularly those which are darker in color. In addition, some women have found that taking a probiotic supplement can work well as this helps to enhance the body's beneficial bacteria, which is needed rebalance the urinary tract.