Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
- What it is
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of your urinary system, which includes kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra.
Recurrent UTIs refer to:
- More than 2 infections in last six months OR
- More than 3 infections in one year
It is more common among women, even among young, healthy women.
Why do recurrent UTIs occur?
There are many possible causes that might predispose an individual to developing recurrent UTIs. These include:
Behavioural risk factors:
- Spermicide use during the past year
- Having a new sex partner during the past year
- Having a first urinary tract infection (UTI) at or before 15 years of age
- Having a mother with a history of UTIs
Urological factors:
- Urinary incontinence
- Presence of a cystocele (a condition in which supportive tissues around the bladder and vaginal wall weaken and stretch, allowing the bladder and vaginal wall to fall into the vaginal canal.)
- Post-voiding residual urine (urine left in your bladder after passing urine)
Medical and hormonal factors:
- Atrophic vaginitis due to oestrogen deficiency
- Diabetes mellitus
- Kidney, ureteric and bladder stones
- Stroke
- Spinal cord injury