If you have cloudy, painful or burning urination, along with an urgent need to urinate and abdominal cramping, you could have a urinary tract infection. Cranberry, in either juice or tablet form, is a known remedy for these bacterial infections, although it's not a substitute for a course of antibiotics and may not work for everyone.
Solutions
Besides adding cranberry juice or tablets to your diet, you should see your doctor if you suspect you have a urinary tract infection. If the diagnosis is confirmed, you will need to take antibiotics for up to 14 days; cranberry alone will not kill the bacteria causing the infection. Seek medical attention immediately if you have chills, night sweats, fatigue, high fever, confusion or severe abdominal pain; these symptoms could indicate that the infection has spread to your kidneys.
Precautions
You should not drink cranberry juice or take cranberry tablets for a urinary tract infection if you've ever had kidney stones or if they run in your family. Avoid any drinks that contain alcohol or caffeine, as they irritate the bladder. Be wary of the nutritional content of your juice intake, as many cranberry juice products contain added sugar or are mixed with other juices. Increase your overall fluid intake by drinking plenty of water.
Prevention
A 2011 study published in the journal "Clinical Infectious Diseases" found that drinking cranberry juice failed to prevent a second urinary tract infection in women with an acute infection. You can continue to drink it in moderate amounts if you like, but if you have recurring urinary tract infections, there are other ways to help prevent them. However, don't use douches, any perfumed feminine products or bath oils. Urinate and clean your genital area before and after having sex. Avoid wearing tight-fitting pants, and wear underwear made of breathable fabrics such as cotton.
Other Uses
There isn't much research into other uses of cranberry for medicinal purposes. It was first used among native Americans as a remedy for bladder and kidney ailments, as well as wounds and blood poisoning; sailors also used cranberries to prevent scurvy. If you've heard of taking cranberry tablets or juice for other feminine medical issues, the advice is likely unfounded; ask your doctor if you're unsure what to do about a personal medical problem.
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