The burning sensation, lower belly pain, cloudy, odorous, blood-tinged urine, and, let’s not forget, the frequent and urgent need to empty your bladder, only to barely be able to produce any urine. If you’ve had a urinary tract infection (UTI), you know these symptoms all too well and have probably tried just about anything to ease the symptoms and keep the discomfort from coming back.

Unfortunately, recurrent urinary tract infections are almost as common as the infection itself. There are many misconceptions about UTIs and what steps you should take to alleviate the pain and keep them from recurring.

Whether you’ve been trying to figure out “Why am I having sudden UTIs?” or “Why do I get constant recurring UTIs?”, you’re in the right place.

In this article:

 What Is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that affects the urinary system, which includes the bladder, urethra, ureters, and kidneys.

These painful infections most commonly occur in the bladder (cystitis), but not all urinary tract infections are bladder infections. UTIs can also occur only in the urethra (urethritis) or in the kidneys (pyelonephritis).

UTIs are most commonly due to bacteria that somehow enter the urinary tract, most typically from the genital area. This explains one reason why women are more prone to UTIs than men, as the female anatomy makes it easier for these harmful bacteria to sneak in and cause an infection.

UTIs are extremely common, especially for females. According to the Urology Care Foundation, UTIs are the second most common type of bodily infection. In any given year, about one in ten women and one in fifty men will experience a UTI. The lifetime risk is much higher, with 40-60% of women and 12-14% of men experiencing a UTI at some point in their lives. 

And unfortunately, many experience recurring UTIs throughout their lifetime. According to research, approximately 25% to 30% of women who have experienced a urinary tract infection (UTI) will experience a recurrence of the infection within six months. Talk about annoying!! These are known as recurring UTI, which might also be referred to as chronic UTI, persistent UTI, or frequent UTI.

What Are Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)?

Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) are repeat infections that occur in the urinary tract over time. They are not a single isolated problem but a pattern of infections that return after treatment.

Doctors typically diagnose a UTI as recurrent when:

  • Three or more infections occur within 12 months, or
  • Two or more infections occur within six months.

In other words, if you get a UTI and it continues to come back despite proper treatment, they are considered recurrent.

Recurrent urinary tract infections shouldn’t be ignored. They can potentially lead to serious health issues, which we will discuss a little further down. 

How Often Is Too Often for a UTI?

One or two UTIs in a lifetime is fairly common. When they start happening over and over, that is when it becomes a concern.

Most experts agree that recurring infections, meaning they show up several times within a year, should be taken seriously.

At that point, your doctor may want to run tests, look for underlying causes, and discuss prevention strategies.

Are UTIs Serious?

In most cases, a UTI isn’t serious and can be cleared with antibiotics. But there can be exceptions. Left untreated, a UTI could damage the kidneys or spread to the bloodstream.

A UTI that originates or spreads to the kidneys can lead to a condition called pyelonephritis, which can result in permanent kidney damage or a life-threatening bloodstream infection called sepsis. If you believe you have a kidney infection, you should seek prompt medical treatment.

Another instance where UTIs can become serious is when they keep coming back. Regardless of where in the urinary tract the infection occurs, a recurring UTI is not something you should ignore. While the root cause is usually something preventable or treatable, like hygiene habits, hormone changes, or bladder stones, in rare cases, recurrent UTIs can be a sign of cancer.

If you have a UTI that won’t go away, experience two or more UTIs within six months of each other, or three UTIs within a year, you should see your doctor.

Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infections

Each type of UTI generally causes the same symptoms. However, the specific symptoms can vary depending on which part of the urinary tract is infected, as well as your age and general health.

The most common symptoms of a urinary tract infection can include:

  • The urge to urinate frequently and urgently, but often not producing much urine.
  • A burning sensation when urinating.
  • Feeling that the bladder is still full after urinating.
  • Lower stomach pain above the pubic bone.
  • Cloudy, bloody and/or smelly urine.

If the UTI is in the urethra, you could have the symptoms above, but most people typically only report having a burning sensation during urination and sometimes a thick discharge that is sometimes cloudy or yellowish-green in color. 

If you have a UTI in the kidneys, which is the most serious type of UTI, it typically brings about additional symptoms, which can include:

  • Chills
  • Fever
  • Vomiting
  • Lower belly pain
  • Pain in the lower back

If you have symptoms of a UTI, it’s best not to ignore them or attempt to treat a UTI at home. While some at-home care strategies may ease discomfort, a true bacterial infection needs a full course of antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. Waiting too long to start proper treatment can allow the infection to spread and develop into a more serious kidney infection.

What’s the Cause of a UTI?

This is gonna sound a bit gross, but the main cause of a UTI is poop.

Well, technically, it’s bacteria in feces that have made their way into the bladder. We’ll explain in a second, but around 80% of UTIs are caused by this bacteria that’s naturally found in your digestive tract.

As for the other 20 percent? Below, we’ll go over several possibilities, some of which might surprise you. We’ll also explain what causes frequent UTI in women, and a few less common culprits that are still worth knowing about.

The Most Common Reasons UTIs Happen

The most common causes of UTIs can vary based on gender, but male or female, young or old, here are the most common reasons why you might have sudden UTIs.

The most common cause of UTIs (around 80%) is bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is naturally found in the digestive tract. If these bacteria travel from the anus to the urethra, they can enter the bladder and cause an infection. Other bacteria, such as Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus saprophyticus, can also be culprits.

While a urinary tract infection is not considered an STI, sex can potentially introduce bacteria into the urethra, increasing the risk of infection. There is even a name for UTIs that are believed to be triggered by sexual activity called “honeymoon cystitis.”

Frequent intercourse, new sexual partners, and lack of lubrication can all make the urinary tract more vulnerable to bacteria.

When the bladder doesn’t fully empty, bacteria have more time to multiply. Several medical conditions or anatomical issues can cause this. It is often a concern for pregnant women, people with neurogenic bladder, and older adults with weakened bladder muscles.

People with poorly controlled diabetes are at higher risk of developing UTIs. There are several reasons why. Diabetes weakens the immune system, which can make it more difficult to fight off infection. It also increases glucose levels in the urine, creating an environment where bacteria thrive. Diabetes can also cause incomplete bladder emptying (urinary stasis), which can also cause bacteria to grow and lead to an infection.

Not drinking enough fluids reduces urination frequency, which prevents bacteria from being flushed out of the urinary tract. Concentrated urine can also irritate the bladder lining, making it more susceptible to infection.

Urinary catheters provide a direct pathway for bacteria to enter the bladder, leading to catheter-associated UTIs (CAUTIs). This is especially common in hospitalized patients or those with mobility issues.

What Causes UTI in Females?

A woman can get a UTI for any of the reasons listed above. However, there are other risk factors that can make women more likely to develop a UTI.

Ladies, if your mom or grandma always told you to wipe front to back, that was sound medical advice. Improper hygiene, such as wiping from back to front after using the bathroom (which we will cover in-depth a little further down), can introduce bacteria to the urethra.

Women are naturally at higher risk of UTIs for several reasons, one being their anatomy. The urethra is shorter in women, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. Additionally, the proximity of the urethra to the anus and vagina increases the chances of bacterial transfer.

During and after menopause, a decline in estrogen leads to thinning of the vaginal lining and urethral tissues. This weakens the natural barrier that prevents bacteria from entering the urinary tract. Reduced levels of protective vaginal lactobacilli are also common during hormonal changes and can contribute to increased infection risk.

Pregnancy introduces hormonal changes that relax the bladder muscles and slow urine flow, giving bacteria a chance to multiply. Additionally, the growing uterus can put pressure on the bladder, making it difficult to fully empty.

Urine and the vaginal environment both have natural acidity that inhibits bacterial growth. An imbalance that reduces this acidity can allow harmful bacteria to multiply and cause infection, including a UTI.

Avoid using scented products like sprays, douches, and powders that are not gynecologist approved. These products can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and pH levels, making the urinary tract more susceptible to infections.

Spermicides contain ingredients that can disrupt the natural vaginal flora, making it easier for bacteria to thrive. Many women use spermicides alone, while others combine spermicide with contraceptive diaphragms.

In addition to the spermicide itself increasing the risk of infection, a diaphram can also put pressure on the urethra, preventing the bladder from emptying completely, which creates an environment where bacteria can grow.

Less Common Reasons of UTIs

While the reasons above account for most UTIs, there are some less common causes that may not be as widely recognized.

These include:

  • Kidney or Bladder Stones
  • Urinary Tract Abnormalities
  • Prolonged Use of Antibiotics
  • Pelvic Organ Prolapse
  • Neurological Disorders
  • Bladder Cancer
  • IUD Insertion
  • Fistulas
  • Radiation Therapy or Chemotherapy
  • Anal Sex Without Proper Hygiene
  • Misuse and Improper Cleaning of Menstrual Cups
  • Foreign Objects in the Vaginal Canal (forgotten tampons, contraceptive devices, etc.) To learn more, here is a list of what not to put in your vagina. 

Even though these causes are less common, they can still result in recurring or complicated UTIs. If you experience frequent infections despite following basic preventive measures, it may be worth looking into these lesser-known possibilities.

What Causes Recurring UTIs?

Many patients wonder, “Why do I get constant recurring UTIs?” The truth is, there isn’t a single answer. It isn’t fully known why some people are more likely to get UTIs repeatedly. However, there are many possible theories why UTIs keep coming back.

If you are experiencing two or more UTIs a year, you should talk to your primary care provider or OBGYN. Some possibilities of what could cause frequent UTIs include:

Genetics

Some doctors believe certain genetic subtypes are more prone to UTIs than others, meaning if your mom or sister gets recurring UTIs, you likely have a genetic predisposition to UTIs as well.

Underlying Health Conditions

You could get recurring UTIs due to an unrelated underlying medical issue.
For example, diabetes can cause excess sugar in the urine, which encourages bacterial growth.

Diabetes is also a cause of urinary stasis, which is a condition where urine is stagnant or trapped in the bladder, which can also cause bacteria to grow and lead to an infection. Vaginal prolapse, stroke, and neurological disorders can also cause urinary stasis. As can nerve issues, weak bladder muscles, certain medications, and defects such as bladder diverticula, pelvic organ prolapse, or an enlarged prostate.

Any type of lesion that creates obstructions (such as bladder stones, kidney stones, or ureteral strictures) can also trap bacteria and promote recurrent urinary tract infections.

If you have an immune disorder that makes it harder for your body to fight off infection, that could also increase your risk of recurring UTI.

Anatomical Issues

Some people have structural differences that alter the anatomy of the urinary system, preventing the bladder from fully emptying and allowing bacteria to linger, which can potentially lead to recurring UTI. Ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction, vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), ureteroceles, or ectopic ureters are examples. Bacterial reflux (vesicoureteric reflux) is another anatomical issue that can trap bacteria and promote recurrent infections. 

How Do I Stop Getting UTIs So Often?

There isn’t one guaranteed way to prevent UTIs, but there are a few preventive measures that can potentially help lower your risk of repeat infections.

  • Drink more water: Staying hydrated helps flush bacteria out of the urinary tract.
  • Don’t hold your urine: Emptying your bladder regularly reduces the chance of bacterial buildup.
  • Choose breathable fabrics: Cotton underwear and looser clothing reduce moisture and bacterial growth.
  • Avoid irritants: Scented soaps, sprays, and douches can upset the balance of healthy bacteria.
  • Go to the bathroom after sex: The theory behind this is that urinating after sex can possibly help clear bacteria that may have entered the urinary tract during intercourse. We’re going to discuss this in depth a little further down in the section about UTI myths. For now, we’ll just say it can’t hurt to pee after sex.
  • Practice proper bathroom hygiene: Always wipe from front to back after using the toilet. This is one of the main reasons females get UTIs so often, since bacteria from the rectum can more easily reach the urethra.

Why Is It Important to Wipe from Front to Back After Using the Bathroom?

Wiping from front to back is essential for maintaining good urinary health, especially for women. Because the urethra is shorter and closer to both the vagina and anus, making it more vulnerable to bacterial contamination.

Preventing Infections

When you wipe from back to front, you run a higher risk of transferring bacteria from the anal region to the urinary tract. This can lead to infections like urinary tract infections (UTIs) and even more severe conditions if the bacteria spread further.

Keeping Things Clean

Good hygiene means keeping the genital area clean and dry. Make sure you’re fully clean before pulling up your underwear to avoid transferring bacteria to your clothes, which can lead to irritation or infections as you go about your day.

A Few Tips:

  • Use Unscented Wipes: They’re gentler on sensitive skin and reduce the risk of irritation.
  • Stay Dry: Pat the area dry with toilet paper to prevent moisture, which can encourage bacterial growth.

Fact or Fiction: Common UTI Myths and Truths

When it comes to urinary tract infections (UTIs), there’s no shortage of old wives’ tales and misconceptions floating around. From myths about the causes of UTIs to beliefs about preventing or treating them, it can be tough to separate fact from fiction.

With UTIs being such a common condition, having accurate information at your fingertips is important. In this section, we’ll explore some of the most prevalent myths and truths about UTIs, so you can stay informed and make the best decisions for your health.

Sorry fellas, this is a myth. UTIs are less common in men than women but can still occur. A man is less likely to get a UTI because the male urethra is longer, making it more difficult for bacteria to reach the bladder and cause an infection.

However, certain factors can increase the risk of UTIs in men, such as an enlarged prostate or a history of urinary tract abnormalities. Additionally, when a UTI develops in men, it is often considered more complicated and likely to spread to the kidneys and upper urinary tract.

If you have ever noticed that it always seems to be the ladies who suffer from UTIs, it’s true, women are more prone to UTIs compared to men. There are several reasons why females get UTIs so often. Anatomy, including a shorter urethra and proximity of the urethra to the vagina, are primary factors. Hormones, primarily high or fluctuating estrogen, are also believed to contribute. Certain forms of birth control, such as spermicides or diaphragms, can also increase the risk of UTI in females.

Unfortunately, this is true. Frequent sexual intercourse is one of the greatest risk factors for recurrent UTIs, especially if you are a woman. During sexual intercourse, friction and pressure can force bacteria in or around the genital area toward the urethra and into the bladder and urinary tract. From there, it populates, and you end up with an infection.

Having sex does not guarantee you will get a UTI, and a UTI is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or contagious condition. However, you can pass the bacteria that causes a UTI between partners.

Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract, usually through your urethra, which is very close to your vaginal opening. So, it would make sense that peeing immediately after sex may help to flush bacteria out of the urethra, thereby helping to prevent a UTI.

While it certainly can’t hurt to pee after sex, especially if you are prone to UTIs, no concrete medical research shows that you need to do so right after sex. Whether urination happens 30 seconds or an hour after you have sex doesn’t seem to make a difference.

This is true! Studies have shown that regularly consuming probiotic-rich foods can reduce the risk of UTIs, particularly in women. Foods, such as some unsweetened yogurts, contain live cultures of beneficial bacteria, including lactobacillus, which can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the urinary tract.

Incorporating probiotic foods like yogurt into your diet can be a simple and tasty way to promote urinary tract health and reduce the risk of UTIs. Just don’t put these foods into your vagina. Unfortunately, putting foods and other products into the vagina is a disturbing and dangerous trend. DON’T put yogurt anywhere but in your mouth.

Unfortunately, UTIs can be yet another downfall of life after menopause. UTI and menopause have an interesting connection.

As women age and go through menopause, the production of estrogen, a hormone that helps keep the urinary tract healthy, decreases. Estrogen helps maintain the thickness and elasticity of the lining of the urinary tract. When estrogen levels decline, the lining becomes thinner and more vulnerable to bacterial infections.

Additionally, the muscles and tissues of the urinary tract weaken over time, making it harder to fully empty the bladder and increasing the risk of bacterial growth. The combination of these factors can make postmenopausal women more susceptible to UTIs.

Some contraceptives can indeed increase your risk of UTIs. If you use spermicide as birth control, this could be the culprit of your UTIs. Spermicides could potentially kill off beneficial bacteria in the vagina, making it easier for E. coli (the bacterium that often causes UTIs) to move in.

Using a diaphragm can also up your odds of UTIs. Diaphragms put pressure on the urethra, making it harder to fully empty your bladder. If urine doesn’t empty, it is more likely to grow bacteria.

If you use one of these methods for pregnancy prevention, you might want to consider a different method of birth control.

Drinking cranberry juice is one of the most well-known natural remedies for UTIs. Cranberries are believed to help ward off UTIs by helping prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract. There is very little evidence that cranberry juice can actually cure a UTI. Still, some studies suggest it can lower your risk for infection.

So, while cranberry juice is not a cure, drinking a couple of glasses or snacking on whole or dried fruit might be worth trying if you frequently get UTIs. Just make sure you are consuming unsweetened cranberries and cranberry juice without added sugars. Added sugars may only make your urinary tract infection worse.

Holding your urine for long periods does not directly cause a UTI, but it can increase the risk of developing a urinary tract infection. This is because holding your urine for too long can cause bacteria to multiply in the bladder.

Additionally, holding urine for long periods can weaken the bladder muscles and make it more difficult to completely empty your bladder when you urinate, which can also increase the risk of a UTI. Urinating regularly is vital to prevent other bladder and urinary tract problems. Adults should generally urinate every 3-4 hours or more frequently if needed.

Not entirely, but drinking lots of water can help flush bacteria out of your bladder faster. According to the Mayo Clinic, 50 percent of UTIs can be treated by drinking enough fluid alone.

Additionally, drinking water can dilute your urine, which can help with the burning and pain during a UTI.

Wearing cotton underwear is beneficial for preventing UTIs. Cotton is a breathable fabric that allows for better air circulation and helps keep the genital area dry. This reduces the likelihood of bacterial growth and infections. In contrast, synthetic fabrics can trap moisture and heat, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. For optimal urinary tract health, choose cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting or non-breathable options.

No, a refrigerator itself cannot cause a UTI… but there could be a connection.

The reason people even started asking if a refrigerator could cause a UTI is because a couple of years ago there was a reported spike in UTIs, along with concerns that UTIs have become more dangerous due to bacteria developing resistance to common antibiotics.

What does this have to do with a refrigerator? A 2023 study suggested that E. coli-contaminated meat may be responsible for nearly half a million UTIs in the United States each year. When news outlets picked up this information, many ran with attention-grabbing, clickbait headlines that implied your refrigerator could be the culprit behind rising UTI rates.

In reality, UTIs aren’t increasing because of your fridge, but improperly stored or contaminated meat inside it could be putting you at a higher risk. This is a reminder to handle and cook meat properly to avoid bacterial infections that could potentially lead to UTIs.

How to Get Relief From UTI Symptoms

UTIs can cause many symptoms, including pain or burning during urination, frequent urination, and the urge to urinate even when the bladder is empty.

Here are some ways to relieve the painful and annoying symptoms of a UTI:

  • Drink plenty of water: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract, reducing the severity of UTI symptoms.
  • Take over-the-counter pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and discomfort caused by UTIs.
  • Apply a heating pad: Applying a heating pad to the lower abdomen can help relieve the pain and discomfort associated with UTIs.
  • Use urinary tract analgesics: Urinary tract analgesics such as phenazopyridine can help relieve the pain, burning, and urgency associated with UTIs.
  • Avoid irritants: Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and acidic foods can help reduce the severity of UTI symptoms. These irritants can build up in the urine, making urinating even more painful while you have a UTI.

How Do You Stop a Recurrent UTI Permanently?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a guaranteed way to prevent UTIs from ever coming back, but there are strategies that can lower your long-term risk.

Your doctor will first want to make sure there isn’t an underlying medical condition, such as diabetes or a structural issue in the urinary tract, that could be causing repeated infections. 

Once those are ruled out, preventive measures may include:

  • Lifestyle habits: Staying well hydrated, urinating regularly, and emptying the bladder fully.
  • Sexual health practices: Urinating after sex and avoiding spermicides or diaphragms if they are linked to repeat infections.
  • Hygiene: Choosing breathable cotton underwear, avoiding irritating soaps, and wiping front to back to reduce the spread of bacteria
  • Medical strategies: In some cases, a doctor may recommend low-dose antibiotics for a period of time or after sexual activity.

Recurrent UTIs can usually be managed, but they should not be ignored. If you continue to get infections, your healthcare provider can work with you on both treatment and prevention to reduce the chances of recurrence.

Best Ways to Treat a UTI

In rare cases, a UTI can go away on its own, but it is relatively uncommon and depends on several factors, such as the severity of the infection and the person’s overall health.

Antibiotics

If you are looking for the quickest way to treat a UTI, it’s best to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Chances are, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to help clear the bacterial infection and prevent the infection from spreading to the kidneys.

A week of antibiotics typically clears things up for the vast majority of simple UTIs. For those with a more severe UTI or recurring UTIs, your doctor may also prescribe long-term, low-dose antibiotics for a more extended period after symptoms subside. Your doctor may also recommend that you take antibiotics after each time you have intercourse.

Natural Remedies

Additionally, many doctors suggest cleansing the bladder and supporting a healthy inflammatory response by supplementing with natural vitamins and herbs. Turmeric, green tea, cranberry, and D-mannose are the most commonly used natural UTI remedies with strong scientific backing.

According to some studies, drinking cranberry juice daily can help minimize recurrences among those who have chronic UTIs, and numerous studies show D-mannose (a natural sugar found in plants and berries) reduced UTI symptoms in women with an active infection, lessened the severity of symptoms, and was even more effective than antibiotics for preventing additional infections.

The most active component in turmeric, curcumin, is known for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Similarly, supplemental green tea is also said to potentially protect against urinary tract inflammation. Green tea also has antibacterial properties that make it remarkably effective against UTIs.

However, avoid drinking caffeinated green tea if you have an active UTI infection, as it can further irritate the bladder. Opt for decaffeinated green tea or caffeine-free supplements.

Diagnosing A Chronic Urinary Tract Infection: What to Expect

Chronic UTIs can be stubborn and frustrating, but getting the right diagnosis is key to effective treatment. Here’s how doctors figure out what’s going on with these recurring infections:

Urine Sample Tests
The first thing your doctor will likely do is analyze a urine sample:

  • Microscopic Examination: They’ll look at the sample under a microscope to check for bacteria, white blood cells, and other signs of infection.
  • Urine Culture: The sample is placed in a culture medium to see if any bacteria grow. This can take 1-3 days and helps identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and the best antibiotics to use.

Imaging Tests
If there’s a concern that the infection has spread to the kidneys or if something more serious is suspected, your doctor may order imaging tests:

  • X-rays: These help spot any structural issues or kidney stones that might be causing the infections.
  • Kidney Scans: More detailed images from an ultrasound or CT scan can provide further insights, especially regarding any potential kidney damage.

Specialized Exams
For ongoing or recurrent infections, more in-depth procedures might be needed:

  • Cystoscopy: In this procedure, a doctor uses a cystoscope (a thin tube with a camera) to look inside the urethra and bladder. This helps find any abnormalities or problems contributing to repeated infections.

Comprehensive Review
Your doctor will also take a detailed look at your medical history and do a physical exam:

  • Medical History: They’ll ask about your history of UTIs, any symptoms you’ve noticed, and any other health conditions that might be making things worse.
  • Physical Exam: A thorough exam can help identify any anatomical or functional issues in your urinary tract.

By using these methods, healthcare providers can get a clear picture of what’s causing your chronic UTIs and create a treatment plan that’s tailored to your specific situation.

The Long-Term Outlook for Someone With Chronic UTIs

Living with chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be tough, but knowing what to expect can help you manage the condition better. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

Treatment and Management

  • Extended Antibiotic Use: Chronic UTIs often require long-term antibiotic treatment. While these can effectively clear infections, it’s important to stay on top of your treatment plan and monitor for any side effects.
  • Symptom Tracking: Keep a close eye on your symptoms. Since UTIs can come back, catching them early can help prevent more serious complications.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Simple adjustments like drinking more water, taking regular bathroom breaks, and practicing good hygiene can help reduce the chances of another UTI.

Potential Complications

  • Kidney Damage: If chronic UTIs aren’t treated properly, they can lead to kidney infections, which could cause lasting damage.
  • Bladder Issues: Ongoing infections can lead to bladder problems, including chronic pain and dysfunction.
  • Antibiotic Resistance: Using antibiotics for a long time can lead to resistance, making future infections harder to treat.

While chronic UTIs can be persistent and uncomfortable, staying proactive through monitoring, lifestyle changes, and preventive care can greatly improve your long-term outlook.

When To See Your OBGYN

Unless you see a medical professional for a proper diagnosis, it’s a guessing game if you have a UTI or if your symptoms are due to something else. Your doctor can quickly confirm that your symptoms are indeed a UTI by taking a urine specimen. The sample will be sent off for a urinalysis or urine culture. From there, your doctor will come up with a proper treatment plan.

While there are many home remedies for treating UTIs and relieving symptoms, to be safe, it is advised to visit your doctor, especially if you have recurring UTIs, severe UTI symptoms, or if your symptoms do not improve within a few days of home treatment. Untreated UTIs can lead to severe complications, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

See an OBGYN in Franklin, TN

Urinary tract infections are among many conditions we treat and diagnose here at Cool Springs OB-GYN in Brentwood and Franklin, TN. Click here to contact us to schedule an appointment or if you have any UTI questions.

FAQs

In some cases, a recurrent UTI isn’t just uncomfortable; it could signal a more serious problem that requires urgent medical attention. If you experience any of the following alongside your UTI symptoms, it’s time to head to the emergency room:

  • Persistent pain in your back or sides, especially near your kidneys
  • A high fever or chills that won’t subside
  • Nausea or vomiting

These symptoms may mean the infection has traveled to your kidneys or become more severe. Quick action can make all the difference, so don’t hesitate to seek immediate care if you notice any of these warning signs.

Pregnancy brings enough unique challenges without the added concern of recurring urinary tract infections. Unfortunately, expectant mothers are at an elevated risk. Not only are UTIs more common during pregnancy, but repeated infections can lead to complications for both mom and baby.

The most significant risks include:

  • Increased likelihood of preterm labor – Frequent UTIs can trigger early contractions, raising the odds of delivering before your due date.
  • Low birth weight – Babies born to mothers who experience ongoing UTIs may have a lower birth weight than average, which can bring its own set of health hurdles.
  • Kidney infections (pyelonephritis) – Untreated or recurrent UTIs are more likely to progress to a kidney infection during pregnancy, which can be serious and possibly require hospitalization.

Because these complications can affect both you and your baby, it’s especially important to work closely with your healthcare provider if you’re dealing with recurrent infections during pregnancy. Your doctor might recommend additional monitoring or preventive strategies to keep both you and your little one healthy.

When dealing with recurring urinary tract infections, it’s helpful to come prepared with questions for your healthcare provider. Clear communication will not only help you understand your condition better but also empower you to take charge of your health.

Consider asking:

  • What might be causing my frequent UTIs? Are there any underlying health or lifestyle factors contributing to them?
  • Is it the same type of bacteria each time, or are new strains involved?
  • Which treatment options are most effective for my situation? Do you recommend any alternative therapies or preventive measures?
  • Are there specific habits or daily routines I should adjust to reduce my chances of another infection (diet changes, hydration tips, bathroom habits, etc.)?
  • What could happen if a recurrent UTI goes untreated? Are there long-term risks I need to be aware of?

Jotting down these questions before your appointment can help ensure you walk away with the information you need—and maybe even a little peace of mind.

Autoimmune diseases can play a role in why some people are more prone to frequent urinary tract infections. Conditions such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are often managed with immunosuppressant medications, including steroids, which can lower the body’s natural defenses against infection. When your immune system is dialed down, bacteria that would normally be kept in check may have an easier time taking hold in the urinary tract.

If you’re living with an autoimmune disorder and notice you’re dealing with UTIs more often than usual, it’s worth discussing this pattern with your doctor. They can help determine if your underlying condition, or the medications you’re taking for it, could be contributing to your infection risk.

If you accidentally skip a dose of your antibiotic, don’t panic—these things happen! The best thing to do is to take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, just skip the missed one and stick to your usual schedule. Taking two doses at once isn’t a good idea and can sometimes cause side effects.

Most importantly, finish the entire antibiotic prescription, even if you’re feeling much better. Stopping early or missing multiple doses can allow the bacteria to bounce back, making things harder to treat down the line and potentially leading to antibiotic resistance. If you’re not sure what to do or have missed more than one dose, check in with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.