Since November is Bladder Health Awareness Month in the US, it’s a good time to examine the causes, treatment, and prevention of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).
More than half of women experience a UTI in their lifetime that may affect the kidneys, bladder, or urethra. And many women struggle with infections that keep coming back.
The potential health consequences of recurrent UTIs make treating them and preventing them a priority at Women’s Specialists of Fayette in Fayetteville and Peachtree City, Georgia.
Here's a message from our team regarding recurrent UTIs and how we can help you stop the cycle and protect your urinary health.
A bladder/urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply. For women, infections can return frequently due to factors such as:
If you experience two or more infections within six months, or three within a year, it’s considered a recurrent UTI.
The first step is identifying what’s causing the recurrence. Your OB/GYN provider at Women’s Specialists at Fayette can perform urine testing and, if needed, imaging or specialized cultures to help confirm the source.
Once the cause is understood, we can develop a prevention strategy for your preference. Recommendations may include:
It helps to drink plenty of water to flush bacteria from the urinary tract. Aim for at least eight glasses daily, unless your doctor advises otherwise. You can also try watermelon, soups, broths, cucumber, lettuce, and other hydrating foods to keep your fluid levels balanced.
Always wipe from front to back and urinate shortly after sexual intercourse to help clear bacteria.
Limit caffeine, alcohol, and artificial sweeteners, which can irritate the bladder. Choose breathable cotton underwear and avoid wearing tight clothes.
Cranberry extract, probiotics, and other supplements may help prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall, but effectiveness can vary. We recommend discussing supplements with your provider before starting.
For persistent cases, we may recommend low-dose preventive antibiotics or post-intercourse antibiotic use. In postmenopausal women, vaginal estrogen therapy may help restore natural defenses and reduce infection frequency.
In some situations, addressing pelvic floor dysfunction or bladder emptying problems can make a big difference.
Infections that develop or spread to the kidneys require urgent medical attention. Schedule an appointment sooner rather than later, or consider emergency care, if you develop fever, chills, lower back pain, or vomiting.
Otherwise, if you’re frequently dealing with UTIs, don’t wait until the next infection strikes. Recurrent bladder infections can create chronic inflammation, discomfort, and kidney involvement.
We can help uncover underlying issues, tailor prevention strategies, and offer treatment options that fit your lifestyle.
At Women’s Specialists of Fayette, we understand how frustrating recurrent bladder infections can be. Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward lasting relief and better bladder health. Request an appointment online or call the office.
