How to Prevent Recurrent UTIs

An intense and frequent urge to pee and a burning feeling during urination and are the unmistakable and sometimes debilitating symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI). For many, this burdensome infection is a recurrent issue.

That’s when you need medical care and, preferably, without having to go anywhere for it. Enter OhanaMed Virtual Urgent Care. Led by Kyle Nefzger, APRN, FNP-C, the team at OhanaMed Virtual Urgent Care offers same-day telehealth appointments to patients four and older throughout Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, Maui, and Hawaii.

We provide a convenient way to access medical consultations and prescription treatments right from your home, helping you find relief without leaving home.

Recurrent UTIs are among the most common conditions we treat. That’s not surprising, since approximately 25% of women who experience a single infection develop another within 6 months.

Here’s what our team wants you to know about recurrent UTIs.

Defining recurrent urinary tract infections

A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria enter the urinary system through the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder. Medical professionals define recurrent infections as having two or more confirmed infections within six months, or three or more within a single year.

Women are far more likely than men to suffer UTIs. That’s because the female urethra is shorter and closer to the anus, making it easier for bacteria like E. coli to migrate into the bladder. Understanding why these infections keep returning is the first step toward breaking the cycle.

Preventing recurrent UTIs

These five tips can reduce your risk of developing another infection:

Drink plenty of fluids: Water throughout the day helps dilute your urine and encourages frequent urination. That flushes bacteria out of your tract before an infection starts.

Wipe from front to back: After using the bathroom, always wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from the anal region from spreading to your urethra.

Urinate after sexual activity: Physical intimacy can push bacteria into the urethra. Urinating shortly after sex helps flush those microbes away.

Avoid irritating products: Scented feminine hygiene sprays, bubble baths, and harsh soaps can irritate the urethra and disrupt the natural bacterial balance, increasing your risk of infection.

Review your birth control options: Certain contraceptives, such as diaphragms or spermicides, can contribute to bacterial growth. Discussing alternatives with a provider might help reduce your infection rate.

When to seek medical evaluation via telehealth

If, despite your best prevention tactics, you start experiencing UTI symptoms, make a virtual appointment with our medical team. We analyze your infection history, discuss your symptoms, and prescribe antibiotics. We send your prescription directly to your preferred pharmacy in Hawaii for quick pickup.

Book a same-day telehealth appointment with OhanaMed Virtual Urgent Care. Call us at 808-468-5779 or request an appointment online.