Recurrent urinary infections are common, particularly in women, and can usually be reduced with a combination of preventive measures. We focus on minimising antibiotics wherever possible.
CONDITIONS
Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Understanding Recurrent UTI
A recurrent UTI means ≥ 2 in 6 months, or ≥ 3 in 12 months. All UTIs in men are considered complicated.
Common Risk Factors
• Female anatomy – the shorter urethra allows bacteria easier access to the bladder
• Sexual activity
• Peri or post-menopause
• Incomplete bladder emptying
• Kidney or bladder stones, or other structural abnormalities of the urinary tract
• Diabetes or immunosuppression
How We Diagnose UTI
• Urine culture (MCS) – helps to distinguish non-infective cystitis from UTI, and shows whether repeat infections are caused by the same organism or a new one
• Assessment for underlying causes, with imaging or cystoscopy in selected cases
How We Manage Recurrent UTI
• Lifestyle changes
• Non-antibiotic options
• Vaginal oestrogen for post-menopausal women
• Targeted antibiotics for acute infections
• Preventive (prophylactic) antibiotics
• Treatment of any underlying cause
