Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common health problem, especially in women, and can significantly affect quality of life.
Although some people may think that repeated UTIs are normal, the reality is that they are not and require appropriate medical attention.
What are recurrent urinary tract infections?
A recurrent UTI is considered when a person experiences two or more infections in six months or three or more in a year. Studies show that up to 53% of women over 55 experience a recurrent UTI within one year after the first episode.1
UTIs are mainly caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract and cause inflammation and symptoms such as:
- Burning sensation during urination
- Frequent need to urinate
- Pain in the lower abdomen or back
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
Recurrence is not an inevitable phenomenon; it is a sign that something in the balance of the urinary tract or immune system needs attention.
Frequent urinary infections should not be considered a normal part of life. Some reasons why they may recur are:
- Anatomical or functional alterations of the urinary tract
- Weakened immune defenses
- Frequent use of antibiotics that alters the microbiota
- Hygiene or habits that favor bacterial colonization
- Chronic diseases such as diabetes
Ignoring these signs can lead to complications such as severe kidney infections or bacterial resistance.
How to correctly address recurrent urinary tract infections?
The correct approach to treating and preventing recurrent urinary tract infections includes:
1. Proper diagnosis
Visiting a healthcare professional to confirm the infection through urine analysis and determine the causative bacteria is essential. This avoids unnecessary treatments and improves the effectiveness of therapy.
2. Following targeted treatment
- Using specific antibiotics according to the type of bacteria and sensitivity
- Using products that strengthen and enhance the action of antibiotics, such as Metiofitina®.
3. Prevention and healthy habits
- Maintaining good hydration to dilute urine and facilitate the elimination of bacteria
- Urinating after sexual intercourse
- Maintaining good intimate hygiene with specific products such as Urogelus®
- Incorporating products that can act as prebiotics for urinary health such as Utipro® Plus AF, creating a protective barrier in the intestine.
4. Evaluation of risk factors
In some cases, anatomical alterations, kidney stones, or chronic conditions that favor recurrence should be investigated.
Conclusion
Recurrent urinary tract infections are not normal and should be addressed comprehensively. Accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and good preventive habits are key to reducing the frequency of UTIs and protecting urinary tract health in the long term.
References
*1 Ikäheimo, R., Siitonen, A., Heiskanen, T., & Mäkelä, P. H. (2008). Recurrent urinary tract infections in women: Epidemiology and risk factors [Abstract]. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25410372/
