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:

It is more common among women, even among young, healthy women.

There are many possible causes that might predispose an individual to developing recurrent UTIs. These include:

Behavioural risk factors:

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:

Adequate fluid intake (target of 2-3L daily)
Contraception modification. An alternate method of contraception that does not include a spermicide-containing product should be considere
Postcoital voiding
Perineal hygiene
Avoid douching and wearing occlusive underwear
Topical oestrogen for postmenopausal women. Topical oestrogen normalises the vaginal flora, thereby reducing risk of UTI. Side effects of vaginal oestrogen are usually mild, which include vaginal bleeding, discharge, and discomfort.
Lactobacillus probiotics may facilitate vaginal flora restoration, which helps preventing UTIs
Cranberry products has possible but limited benefits
Continuous or post-coital antibiotics are used when other measures have failed.

Urine sample to test for UTI-causing bacteria
In patients >40 years or have other risk factors, imaging such as US, CT/MRI or cystoscopy may be required for further evaluation