Causes of Recurrent urinary tract infections

Are you experiencing frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs)? Continue reading to learn about the causes of recurrent UTIs and detailed methods for preventing this issue.

Causes of Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections

A UTI, or urinary tract infection, is an infection that affects any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. The most common cause of UTIs is the bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is responsible for approximately 80-85% of all UTIs. However, other types of bacteria that may also cause UTIs include:

1. Staphylococcus saprophyticus.
2. Klebsiella.
3. Pseudomonas.
4. Enterococcus.

A UTI is considered recurrent if it occurs more than twice within six months or more than three times within a year. Several factors can increase the likelihood of experiencing recurrent UTIs, including:

• Use of Spermicides: Spermicides, which immobilize or kill sperm before they enter the uterus, can also kill beneficial bacteria in the vagina, making it easier to develop a UTI.
• Sexual Activity: Sexual intercourse can increase the number of bacteria in the bladder, raising the risk of recurrent UTIs.
• Menopause: Physical changes and hormonal fluctuations during menopause can make the urinary tract more susceptible to infections.
• Urinary Tract Problems: Conditions such as urinary incontinence or a cystocele (a condition where the supportive tissues around the bladder and vaginal wall weaken, causing the bladder and vaginal wall to protrude into the vaginal canal) can lead to frequent UTIs.
• Weakened Immune System: People with diabetes or those undergoing chemotherapy are more susceptible to all types of infections, including recurrent UTIs.
• Obstructions in the Urinary Tract: Conditions like kidney stones or bladder stones can obstruct the urinary tract.
• Inability to Fully Empty the Bladder: Conditions such as prostate enlargement in men or constipation in children can prevent the bladder from emptying completely.
• Inadequate Fluid Intake: Not drinking enough fluids or failing to keep the genital area clean and dry can contribute to recurrent UTIs.
• Family History: A family history of recurrent UTIs, such as having a mother or sister with a similar history, is a notable risk factor.
• Other causes: like Stroke or Spinal Cord Injury.

Why Are Women More Susceptible to Recurrent UTIs?

UTIs are notably common among women, with 1 in 5 women experiencing recurrent UTIs. Almost all women will experience at least one UTI in their lifetime.

The increased frequency of UTIs in women is attributed to their anatomical structure. The female urethra is very short, allowing bacteria from the skin and surface to easily enter the bladder. It is also located near the vagina and the anus, which can facilitate the entry of bacteria into the urinary tract.

After menopause, decreased estrogen levels cause changes in vaginal and urethral tissues, making them drier and more prone to bacterial colonization.

Preventing Recurrent UTIs

To help prevent recurrent UTIs, consider the following measures:

• Drink Plenty of Fluids: Aim for approximately 2-3 liters of fluids daily.
• Avoid Spermicides: Use alternative contraceptive methods to prevent UTIs.
• Empty the Bladder After Intercourse: Ensure you urinate after sex.
• Maintain Hygiene: Keep the genital area clean and dry.
• Use Topical Estrogen: For postmenopausal women, topical estrogen can help restore beneficial bacteria in the vagina.
• Take Cranberry Supplements and Probiotics: These may help prevent UTIs.

If the previous measures fail, the doctor may prescribe the use of antibiotics continuously or only after intercourse. However, this is typically done after conducting urine culture tests to identify the type of bacteria that usually causes the infection. 

Blazma provides tests for urine culture and sensitivity to identify the bacteria and determine the appropriate antibiotics. Generally, no specific preparations are needed before the test, but you might be asked to avoid urinating for an hour before the test, drink a glass of water about 30 minutes before, or collect a urine sample in the early morning.