Recurring UTIs: Causes & Treatment

A recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) is defined as having two or more UTIs within six months or three or more within a year. These infections can be frustrating, painful, and disruptive, often returning shortly after treatment.

Common UTI symptoms include:

• Painful urination or burning sensation
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Cloudy or bloody urine

Common Causes of Recurrent UTIs

Most recurrent UTIs occur due to bacterial reinfection, usually by E. coli—a bacteria that naturally lives in the gastrointestinal tract but can migrate into the urinary system. Other possible bacteria include Enterococcus faecalis, Klebsiella, and Proteus mirabilis.

Key Risk Factors:

• Menopause: Lower estrogen levels thin vaginal tissues and alter pH, increasing infection risk.
• Urinary retention: Incomplete bladder emptying can promote bacterial growth.
• Urinary tract abnormalities: Kidney stones or structural issues can trap bacteria.
• Sexual activity: Bacteria can be introduced into the urinary tract, leading to UTIs after sex.
• Weakened immune system: Autoimmune diseases or immunosuppressants may increase infection susceptibility.

UTI Treatment Options

1. Antibiotic Therapy

Antibiotics are often the first-line UTI treatment:

• Acute infections: Typically treated with short courses of antibiotics.
• Recurrent cases: May require low-dose daily antibiotics.

2. Non-Antibiotic Therapies

For patients seeking alternative or preventive options, non-antibiotic approaches could be an option worth discussing with your provider.

3. Vaginal Estrogen Therapy

For postmenopausal women, vaginal estrogen therapy can restore normal pH and improve protective vaginal flora, potentially reducing recurrent UTI risk.

When to See a Specialist

Consult a urologist or OB-GYN if you experience:

• Recurrent infections despite treatment
• Fever, chills, or back pain
• Blood in urine
• Symptoms suggesting kidney or structural issues

Further diagnostic tests—such as ultrasound, imaging, or cystoscopy—may be recommended to determine underlying causes.

How Burlington OBGYN Associates Can Help

At Burlington OBGYN Associates, we specialize in diagnosing and managing recurrent urinary tract infections in women. Our dedicated team provides compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your needs.

Our Services Include:

• Comprehensive physical exams
• Ultrasound and imaging diagnostics
• Pain management strategies
• Personalized treatment and prevention plans

We understand how frustrating it can be to live with recurrent UTIs. Our goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered on your journey to better urinary health.

Schedule your appointment with Burlington OBGYN Associates today and take the first step toward lasting relief.