Recurrent UTIs: A Naturopathic Approach
What is a UTI?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system, including the
kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. Most UTIs involve the lower urinary tract - the bladder
and urethra.
Infections affecting the lower urinary tract have been estimated to occur in up to 50–60% of
women and those assigned female at birth (AFAB) at some stage during their lives, with 1
in 3 experiencing one before the age of 24. Recurrent UTIs are defined as 2 or more UTIs
within 6 months or 3 in a year.
Common symptoms include.
Burning pain on urination
Increased frequency of urination
A feeling to needing to urinate with reduce urine volume
Lower abdominal pain and/or pain in the back or side
Cloudy or dark coloured urine
Urine with a strong odour
Other symptoms include, blood in the urine (visible or on urinalysis), elevated white blood
cells and/or bacteria in the urine (on urinalysis). Fever can also occur and indicates
increasing severity of the infection.
What causes UTIs?
Most UTIs occur when pathogenic microbes, most commonly the bacteria Escherichia coli
(E.coli), enter the urinary tract and multiply causing inflammation and infection. Other
potential microbes include Enterococcus faecalis, Klebsiella, Proteus
mirabilis, or Staphylococcus. In women and those AFAB, these microbes are most
commonly from faecal contamination or vaginal secretions.
Due to female anatomy including a shorter urethra, these microbes may be able to ascend more easily into the bladder. Sexual intercourse including pathogenic microbes on the skin, in saliva and from genital
secretions are also potential contributors.
Other contributing factors include immune system dysfunction, allergy or autoimmune processes and loss of Lactobacilli in the vaginal flora.
There are also hormonal factors associated with the risk of developing UTIs. Pregnant
women, perimenopausal and postmenopausal women and menstruating women all have a
higher risk of developing a UTI.
Additionally, those who have experienced a UTI are at a higher risk of developing another
one. This is due to an increased inflammatory response during the initial infection.
Testing for a UTI
In Australia, diagnosing a UTI typically involves a urinalysis requested by a GP to check for
the presence of bacteria, white blood cells or other indicators of infection. Additionally, urine
culture tests may be completed to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and
determine its susceptibility to antibiotics.
Naturopaths may also recommend further testing to assess factors such as the urinary
microbiome, hormonal imbalances, immune function and gut health as these can all
influence a person’s susceptibility to UTIs.
Naturopathic Treatment of UTIs
Naturopathic treatment uses a holistic approach that aims to prevent the occurrence of UTIs
and address the root cause while supporting the body’s own innate healing abilities.
Treatment involves personalised dietary and lifestyle advice and may include supplements
that are recommended on an individual basis. Below are some of my favourite tips for
preventing UTIs.
Stay hydrated - Drinking plenty of water helps to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract
and dilute urine, reducing the risk of infection. Diluted cranberry juice concentrate, green tea
and herbal teas may also be beneficial.
Avoid known irritants - Foods and beverages that can irritate the bladder, such as caffeine,
alcohol, carbonated drinks, spicy foods, and artificial sweeteners, should be avoided.
Maintain good hygiene - This is essential for preventing the spread of bacteria that can
cause UTIs. It includes wiping from front to back after using the bathroom, washing genital
areas with a pH neutral wash and water, and wearing breathable underwear made from
natural fibres such as cotton or bamboo.
Urinate after sex and avoid holding urine - Urinating after sex helps to flush out any
bacteria that may have been introduced into the urinary tract during sex. Likewise urinating
regularly flushes the urinary tract, preventing bacteria multiplying.
Stay active - Regular exercise improves circulation and immune function, which can help
prevent UTIs.
Manage stress - Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and can contribute to
inflammation, making the body more susceptible to infections like UTIs.
Probiotics - Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut promote a healthy balance
of gut bacteria, which in turn can support urinary tract health. Probiotic supplements
containing strains such as Lactobacillus spp. can help to rebalance the urinary and gut
microbiomes, reducing the risk of recurrent UTIs.
Supplements - Supplements such as D-mannose, cranberry, certain probiotic strains, zinc,
vitamin C and herbal medicines may be helpful in treating and preventing UTIs. It’s important
to consult with a healthcare professional before taking nutritional and/or herbal supplements,
they should be prescribed by a naturopath or another qualified health professional following
a consultation.
It is important to note that UTIs can progress to upper urinary tract infections quickly and if
symptoms are not improving or are worsening then the advice of a GP or medical specialist
should be sought.
Jess is a degree qualified Naturopath who has a special clinical interest in treating genitourinary conditions such as UTI's. To book an appointment with Jess click HERE
