Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common, disruptive, and often exhausting. They affect about 25% of US women today.
At his private obstetrics and gynecology practice in Queens and White Plains, New York, board-certified OB/GYN Daniel S. Kushner, MD, helps women find the root cause of their repetitive UTIs and get effective treatment.
Our team of empathetic, patient-centered experts understands that it’s frustrating to go through treatment, start feeling like yourself again, and only a few weeks or months later have the symptoms return. Understanding why they happen is the first step toward breaking the cycle.
Having recurrent UTIs means experiencing two or more infections in a six month period or three or more in a year. Although at least half of women have a UTI during their lifetime, recurrent UTIs are very different from isolated incidents that happen years apart.
They’re not disconnected situations, nor are they just bad luck — recurrent UTIs are a pattern that requires specialized analysis and treatment. It starts with an evaluation that digs deep to find causes.
Most women recognize the symptoms: Burning with urination, frequent urgency, pelvic pressure, and discolored or smelly urine are common. In many cases, a combination of factors is behind these intrusive issues.
Women are up to 30 times more susceptible to UTIs compared to men. This mainly comes down to anatomy. The female urine tube (urethra) is shorter, making it easier for bacteria from sexual activity or wiping after bowel movements to reach the bladder.
Hormonal changes can play a big role in UTIs over time. As estrogen levels decline, vaginal and urinary tissues grow thinner, providing less protection against harmful bacteria. The balance of healthy bacteria shifts, making an atmosphere where infections are more likely to develop.
Everyday habits, such as low fluid intake or delaying urination, can be partly responsible. In some cases, underlying conditions like incomplete bladder emptying or metabolic issues may also play a role.
In addition, repeated antibiotic use can disrupt the body’s natural microbiome, allowing harmful bacteria to return more easily. That’s one of the main reasons why it’s so important to entrust an expert like Dr. Kushner with your care. He prescribes antibiotics only where appropriate and keeps the focus on your long-term wellness.
While antibiotics are often necessary to treat active UTIs, long-term care focuses on recognizing root causes and putting preventive strategies into action.
Dr. Kushner and our team recommend personalized care and prevention plans — not only treating the active infection, but also encouraging steps to avoid urinary tract irritation, maintain optimal hydration, and other proactive approaches.
For women in perimenopause or menopause, vaginal estrogen therapy may be a good option to help restore tissue health and support the natural protective environment of the vagina. Studies show this helps reduce recurrence.
Dr. Kushner takes a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to recurrent UTIs, helping you move beyond temporary fixes and into lasting relief. Call 914-422-0222 in White Plains or 718-793-1995 in Kew Gardens, Queens to book your appointment.
