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Abstract
Recurrent lower urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common problem seen in general practice affecting more women than men. Fifty per cent of women will experience at least one UTI during their lifetime and 20% will have recurrent UTIs.
Key Points
- Lower urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common patient presentations to general practice.
- For various anatomical and physiological reasons, UTIs are more common in women, with 50% experiencing at least one UTI in their lifetime.
- Evidence of two or more UTIs in six months, or three or more UTIs in one year is defined as recurrent UTI (rUTI).
- Urine microscopy, culture and sensitivity is the gold standard diagnostic investigation for UTI and rUTI.
- Women with rUTI need further investigations to identify underlying causes.
- Antibiotics are at the core of UTI treatment, but for rUTIs they may be considered as a prophylactic option.
- Nonantiobiotic options include methenamine hippurate and topical oestrogens.
- General advice to women with rUTI is directed at lifestyle modification, personal hygiene, safe sex practice and sexual behaviour modification.
