Urinary Tract Infection (Recurrent)
Recurrent UTI Care at UVM Health
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common, treatable infection that can occur in any part of the urinary system, including the bladder, urethra and kidneys. UTIs happen when bacteria — most often from the skin or rectum — enter the urinary tract and begin to multiply. Recurrent UTI is when you have three or more UTIs within a year.
Why Choose UVM Health?
As one of the region’s leading urology programs, UVM Health offers:
- Advanced diagnostic tests: We use the latest diagnostic technology to provide fast, accurate results so treatment can begin promptly.
- Experienced team: Our board-certified urologists, urogynecologists, gynecologists and nurses collaborate to create a personalized care plan based on your symptoms, medical history and needs.
- Academic focus: As part of a health system anchored by an academic medical center, our physicians are also active researchers, many of whom are training the next generation of urologists. Our academic focus helps ensure you receive safe, up-to-date evidence-based care.
Recurrent UTI Causes
Identifying the cause of recurrent UTIs is essential for effective treatment. Commons causes are:
- Being female (shorter urethra makes it easier for bacteria to enter)
- Having a previous UTI
- Recent sexual activity
- Changes in vaginal bacteria (e.g., menopause, spermicides)
- Pregnancy
- Older age
- Structural problems in the urinary tract, such as an enlarged prostate
- Not emptying the bladder completely
- Holding urine for long periods
- Wiping back to front after using the bathroom
- Medical conditions that affect bladder emptying (e.g., diabetes)
Recurrent UTI Symptoms
UTI symptoms vary depending on whether the infection is in the bladder or kidneys. Common symptoms include:
- Pain or burning during urination
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Blood in the urine (pink, red, or brown urine)
- Pressure or cramping in the lower abdomen or groin
- Pain or burning sensation when urinating
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Lower abdominal or back pain
- Fever, chills and nausea (more common if the infection has spread to the kidneys)
Seek medical care right away if you develop fever, back pain or vomiting, as these may be signs of a more serious infection.
Diagnosing UTI
Your clinician will ask about your symptoms, health history and perform a physical exam. Testing may include:
- Urinalysis or urine culture: To look for bacteria, blood or white blood cells
- Imaging tests: If symptoms are severe or recurrent
- Post‑void residual measurement: To check how much urine remains in the bladder after urination
Recurrent UTI Treatment
Most UTIs are treated with antibiotics, which can usually be taken at home. Your provider will choose the best medication based on your symptoms and, when available, urine test results.
Other treatments may include:
- Medicines to reduce pain or discomfort
- Increased fluid intake to help flush bacteria from the urinary tract
- Hospital treatment for severe infections, especially kidney infections or UTIs during pregnancy
If UTIs happen often, your clinician may recommend additional strategies to reduce recurrence such as behavioral changes, preventive medications or addressing underlying conditions.
Locations Near You
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792 College Parkway
Fanny Allen, Medical Office Building, Suite 101
Colchester, VT 05446-3052
792 College Parkway
Suite 302
Colchester, VT 05446-3052
111 Colchester Avenue
Main Campus, East Pavilion, Level 5
Burlington, VT 05401-1473
1330 Exchange Street
Suite 103
Middlebury, VT 05753-4464
15 Degrandpre Way
Plattsburgh, NY 12901-6449