Treatment for Recurrent UTIs
Investigation and long-term management of recurring urinary tract infections in both children and adults, addressing underlying contributing factors rather than simply treating each episode in isolation.
When UTIs keep coming back
A single urinary tract infection (UTI) is unpleasant enough, but when infections recur repeatedly, they can significantly impact quality of life, disrupt daily routines, and in some cases, indicate an underlying issue with the urinary tract that warrants further investigation.
At The Yellow Spot Clinic, we take a thorough, proactive approach to recurrent UTIs in both children and adults. Rather than simply treating each episode as it arises, we work to understand why the infections are happening - and what can be done to reduce their frequency or prevent them altogether.
What counts as recurrent?
In general, recurrent UTIs are defined as:
Three or more UTIs within a twelve-month period, or
Two or more UTIs within a six-month period
However, even if your frequency doesn't quite meet these thresholds, if UTIs are affecting your quality of life or your child's wellbeing, it is worth seeking a specialist opinion.
Why do UTIs recur?
Recurrent UTIs may be linked to a range of contributing factors, including:
Incomplete bladder emptying, which allows bacteria to remain in the bladder
Constipation - a very common and often overlooked factor, particularly in children
Bladder dysfunction or holding behaviours
Anatomical factors (more common in children)
Hormonal changes (in postmenopausal women)
Urinary tract abnormalities identified on imaging
Sexual activity patterns (in adults)
Our approach
A consultation at The Yellow Spot Clinic for recurrent UTIs involves a thorough history, review of previous investigations and treatments, and depending on age and presentation, further assessment of bladder and bowel function. We may recommend urine culture and sensitivity testing, ultrasound of the urinary tract, or urodynamic evaluation.
Management strategies may include targeted lifestyle and voiding advice, bowel management, low-dose antibiotic prophylaxis where clinically warranted, and in paediatric cases, follow-up imaging and monitoring. Our aim is always to address the root cause, not just the next infection.
