Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Assessment & Treatment

A recurrent urinary tract infection is generally defined as having multiple UTIs over a period of time. While some people are more prone to infection than others, recurrent UTIs can sometimes be caused by an underlying structural or functional problem within the urinary tract.

Your urologist may investigate for conditions such as:

• Difficulty emptying the bladder completely
• Bladder or kidney stones
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Other abnormalities affecting the urinary tract

Identifying and treating these underlying causes can help reduce the risk of future infections.

Your assessment will depend on your symptoms, medical history and previous infections. Your urologist may recommend:

• Reviewing your medical history and previous urine test results
• A physical examination where appropriate
• Urine testing
• Imaging or other investigations if an underlying urinary tract problem is suspected

The aim is to understand why infections are recurring and develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

Simple lifestyle changes may help reduce the risk of recurrent urinary tract infections, including:

• Maintaining good hydration

• Emptying your bladder regularly

• Passing urine after sexual intercourse where appropriate

• Following other personalised bladder health advice from your healthcare team

Your GP or urologist may discuss additional options if lifestyle measures alone are not enough.

Uromune® (sublingual bacterial vaccine)

• Uromune® is a sublingual bacterial vaccine that may be discussed for selected patients with recurrent UTIs. Evidence is continuing to develop, and suitability and access depend on individual circumstances.

D-mannose

• D-mannose is a naturally occurring sugar sometimes used as a supplement for UTI prevention. However, clinical studies have not consistently shown a reduction in recurrent infections, so its benefit is uncertain.

Hiprex® (methenamine hippurate)

• Hiprex® is a non-antibiotic urinary antiseptic that may be used to help prevent recurrent urinary tract infections in suitable patients.

Other preventive measures may include vaginal oestrogen in suitable peri- or postmenopausal patients and, in selected circumstances, antibiotic prevention.

These treatments are not appropriate for everyone. Your GP or urologist will discuss whether they are suitable for your individual circumstances, including any potential interactions or availability.

Our experienced urology specialists at the Auckland Urology Institute take the time to understand why urinary tract infections are recurring, rather than simply treating each infection as it occurs. By identifying underlying causes and developing personalised prevention strategies, we aim to reduce the frequency of infections and improve long-term bladder health.