In order for bacteria, like E.coli, to cause a urinary tract infection (UTI) they must adhere to the wall of the bladder. Active compounds in cranberry, known as proanthocyanidins, have exhibited anti-adherence action. That is, they prevent bacteria from adhering and thus may reduce the incidence of UTIs. A small study indicated that cranberry helped to maintain urinary tract health in women supplementing with cranberry.