Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are incredibly common — especially among women — and one of the most talked-about home remedies is cranberry juice. But does it actually work?
Dr. Lamia Gabal, board-certified urogynecologist and founder of Prestige Medical Group, was recently interviewed by Well Health to help clarify what cranberry juice can — and cannot — do when it comes to UTIs.
👉 This article is based on and references the original Well Health feature:
What Happens If You Drink Cranberry Juice When You Have a UTI?
(We encourage you to read the full original article here.)
Can Cranberry Juice Treat an Active UTI?
Short answer: no.
While cranberry juice has long been associated with urinary health, it does not treat an active urinary tract infection. Once bacteria are present in the urinary tract and symptoms begin — such as burning, urgency, frequent urination, or pelvic discomfort — antibiotics prescribed by a medical provider are the only proven treatment.
According to Dr. Gabal, cranberry juice can sometimes worsen symptoms during an active infection because:
- Cranberry juice is acidic, which may irritate the bladder
- Many cranberry juices contain added sugar, which can further aggravate inflammation
- Increased irritation can intensify urgency, pressure, and discomfort
If you suspect a UTI, prompt medical evaluation is important to prevent complications such as kidney infection.
Can Cranberry Juice Help Prevent UTIs?
This is where cranberry gets its reputation — and where the science is more encouraging.
Cranberries contain natural compounds called proanthocyanidins (PACs). These compounds may help prevent certain bacteria (especially E. coli) from sticking to the lining of the bladder. When bacteria can’t adhere, they’re more easily flushed out of the urinary tract.
Research suggests cranberry products may help reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs, particularly in women who experience frequent infections. However:
- The benefit is preventive, not curative
- Results vary depending on the product and dosage
- Cranberry should be viewed as supportive, not a replacement for medical care
The FDA even allows a qualified health claim stating that daily cranberry consumption may help reduce recurrent UTIs — but emphasizes that the evidence is limited and inconsistent.
What’s the Best Way to Use Cranberry for Urinary Health?
If you’re considering cranberry as part of a prevention plan, Dr. Gabal recommends keeping these tips in mind:
✔ Choose the right product
- Look for 100% cranberry juice with no added sugar
- Avoid cranberry “cocktails,” which often contain minimal cranberry and high sugar
✔ Consider cranberry supplements
- Capsules or extracts may provide more consistent PAC dosing
- Often easier on the bladder than acidic juice
✔ Stay well hydrated
- Water intake remains one of the most effective ways to support urinary health
✔ Address underlying causes
- Hormonal changes, pelvic floor dysfunction, sexual activity, and vaginal health all play a role in recurrent UTIs
When to See a Specialist
If you experience:
- Frequent UTIs
- Persistent symptoms despite treatment
- UTIs after menopause
- Pain with urination but negative urine cultures
You may benefit from a urogynecologic evaluation. At Prestige Medical Group, we focus on identifying why UTIs keep happening — not just treating them when they occur.
Expert Takeaway
✔ Cranberry juice does not cure UTIs
✔ It may help reduce recurrence in certain patients
✔ Medical evaluation and proper treatment are essential
✔ Prevention works best when tailored to your body and health history
If you’re struggling with recurrent UTIs or want a personalized prevention plan, our team is here to help.
Schedule a Consultation
📍 Prestige Medical Group
18302 Irvine Blvd #200
Tustin, CA 92780
📞 (949) 825-7650
🌐 prestigemedigroup.com