Women should drink plenty of water and cut out junk food to reduce their risk of urinary tract infections.

Women who suffer from recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) should ensure they drink plenty of water, an expert has advised.

UTIs are very common, affecting around half of all women during their lives, with symptoms including a pain or burning sensation when urinating, a need to urinate often, and pain in the lower abdomen.

It is important for women with symptoms that have lasted for more than five days to visit their GP, as they may need antibiotics to speed up their recovery and prevent complications.

Even with treatment, however, some women find that these infections keep returning, causing pain and discomfort on a regular basis.

There are a number of steps that women can take to reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs and one of the most important is to drink plenty of water and eat healthily, according to gynaecologist Henry Bukenya.

He told the New Vision news provider that women should "drink at least three litres of water to cleanse your body".

"If you consume a lot of junk and alcohol and do not drink enough water, you are likely to suffer from recurrent UTIs," he added.

Women who regularly experience this problem should also ensure they visit the toilet whenever they feel the need, wipe from the front to the back after going to the toilet, and practise good hygiene.

It may also be useful to avoid using feminine hygiene sprays and wipes, as these can destroy the 'good' bacteria needed to keep harmful bacteria in check, and to wear cotton underwear rather than synthetic fibres.

For those who are concerned about their general bladder health, a supplement such as Flowease could be of interest.

This premium quality rye flower pollen extract contains a combination of phytonutrients that help to support bladder health and stability, both in women and in men.

Thanks to its wide range of nutritional components, including anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory substances, Flowease can help to promote and maintain healthy urination.