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How long does treatment last for chronic UTIs?
I have been experiencing on average one urinary tract infection per month for the past two years. After seeing many doctors and being prescribed different antibiotics, I saw a urologist and had some tests done. My ultra sound was normal, as well as the urinalysis (taken when no symptoms of a uti were present). I then started taking Nitrofurantoin Macrocrystal (a daily antibiotic or taken after sex, also called Macrodantin). The UTIs went away during this time. However, my prescription has expired and the UTIs are back. Does anyone have experience with long term antibiotic treatments? How long does typical treatment for chronic UTIs last? I am worried about taking antibiotics for more than a year.
Hi michelle_my_belle.
I know I'm probably a little late, but I just saw your post. I am a 40 year urology patient. Trust me...there's an underlying cause! Your best bet would be to see a good Urologist. As far as how long you might have to treat this...well, it depends on the cause. Some bladder issues may be quickly resolvable, some are not, but all but the very, very worst can be managed. I too have to take Nitrofurantoin Macrocrystals after intercourse as a prophylactic. Sex is notorious for causing UTI's even in women without any underlying issues (google "honeymoon cystitis"). A lot of bacteria gets moved up a very short access as well as urethral irritation caused by sex. You are doubly likely to get cystitis if you have something already going on. ALL women (even one who's never had cystis) should urinate immediately after sex as it flushes foreign bacteria from the urethra. Also, not to get too personal, but pay attention to positioning and heavy impact directly against the urethra as minor bruising or rawness can be a major factor as well. Okay, so getting even more personal, it also helps a great deal to make sure you and your partner are freshly washed prior to intercourse (this is important, and can be fun!). I tell you this with my full lifetime of managing my urinary issues and knowing how you feel. It will get better, I promise.
I know I'm probably a little late, but I just saw your post. I am a 40 year urology patient. Trust me...there's an underlying cause! Your best bet would be to see a good Urologist. As far as how long you might have to treat this...well, it depends on the cause. Some bladder issues may be quickly resolvable, some are not, but all but the very, very worst can be managed. I too have to take Nitrofurantoin Macrocrystals after intercourse as a prophylactic. Sex is notorious for causing UTI's even in women without any underlying issues (google "honeymoon cystitis"). A lot of bacteria gets moved up a very short access as well as urethral irritation caused by sex. You are doubly likely to get cystitis if you have something already going on. ALL women (even one who's never had cystis) should urinate immediately after sex as it flushes foreign bacteria from the urethra. Also, not to get too personal, but pay attention to positioning and heavy impact directly against the urethra as minor bruising or rawness can be a major factor as well. Okay, so getting even more personal, it also helps a great deal to make sure you and your partner are freshly washed prior to intercourse (this is important, and can be fun!). I tell you this with my full lifetime of managing my urinary issues and knowing how you feel. It will get better, I promise.
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