Date of Award

Spring 2025

Degree Name

Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)

Department

Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences

First Advisor

Jacinta Hollinger, PA-C

Abstract

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common complaint encountered by healthcare providers in a multitude of clinical settings and primarily affect non-pregnant women of reproductive age. Many of these individuals experience chronically recurring UTIs either due to a relapsing infection or reinfection following resolution of the initial infection. The current cornerstone and most effective form of prophylaxis utilizes long term, low dose antibiotics. However, the emergence of worldwide antimicrobial resistance highlights the need for further exploration of alternatives to antibiotics in the management of recurrent UTIs. This article reviews the pathophysiology of recurrent UTIs and presents both antibiotic and non-antibiotic approaches to care.

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Management and Prevention of Recurrent, Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections in Premenopausal Women

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common complaint encountered by healthcare providers in a multitude of clinical settings and primarily affect non-pregnant women of reproductive age. Many of these individuals experience chronically recurring UTIs either due to a relapsing infection or reinfection following resolution of the initial infection. The current cornerstone and most effective form of prophylaxis utilizes long term, low dose antibiotics. However, the emergence of worldwide antimicrobial resistance highlights the need for further exploration of alternatives to antibiotics in the management of recurrent UTIs. This article reviews the pathophysiology of recurrent UTIs and presents both antibiotic and non-antibiotic approaches to care.