What you need to know about chronic UTIs

If you’ve had a urinary tract infection (UTI), you know it can be painful and frustrating. But dealing with chronic UTIs? That’s a whole different ballgame. Chronic UTIs bring that never-ending cycle of burning, frequent bathroom trips, and general discomfort, making everyday life way harder than it should be. So, if you’re stuck in this loop, let’s get into what’s going on, why it keeps happening, and what you can do to break the cycle.

If you think you have a UTI, Hey Jane’s expert clinical team can guide you through treatment from the comfort and convenience of your phone. To see if you’re eligible for care with Hey Jane, fill out this quick online form.

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What is a chronic UTI?

A chronic UTI isn’t just one rough infection that sticks around—it’s when UTIs keep coming back. If you’re getting two or more UTIs in six months, or three or more in a year, that’s when health care providers might label it “chronic” or “recurrent.” 

Symptoms of chronic UTIs are usually the same as a regular UTI—burning sensation, needing to pee right now, and maybe even cloudy or strong-smelling urine. The only difference? It’s way more persistent.

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What causes chronic UTIs?

Here are some common reasons why UTIs can become a recurring issue:

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How to prevent chronic UTIs

While no magic trick stops chronic UTIs for everyone, a few lifestyle adjustments might reduce your chances of another infection. Let’s break down some practical tips:

Treatment for chronic UTIs

If you’ve tried everything and the infections keep coming, don’t worry—options exist to help manage chronic UTIs. Here’s what you need to know:

• Take low-dose antibiotics. For some people, health care providers may prescribe a low-dose antibiotic to take regularly as a preventive measure. This isn’t for everyone, but it’s worth asking your doctor if you’ve exhausted other options. Our expert team at Hey Jane works with people experiencing chronic UTIs, and can have your prescription ready for pickup at your local pharmacy ASAP.
• Consider over-the-counter (OTC) medications for symptom relief. While OTC medications won’t cure a UTI, they can help relieve symptoms until you get prescription treatment. Options like phenazopyridine (found in products like Azo) can ease burning and urgency, though it may turn your urine orange. Standard pain relievers, like ibuprofen (Advil), can also help manage discomfort, especially if you’re experiencing any lower back pain. 
• Confirm that is what is going on! Urine tests (that we can order at Hey Jane) can confirm that what you are feeling is indeed a UTI, and which antibiotic is the best fit. There are many strains of bacteria, so a specific antibiotic may be better at treating your infection than others.

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When to seek help

If you’re dealing with chronic UTIs, it’s important to know when symptoms might signal a bigger issue. Watch for red flags like a fever, pain in your back or side, nausea, or symptoms that persist even after starting treatment. These can indicate that the infection is spreading, which may require more intensive care.

Working with a health care provider is key to getting lasting relief. Chronic UTIs can be tricky to manage alone, and a provider can help you develop a tailored prevention and treatment plan. They’ll work with you to identify triggers, suggest lifestyle changes, and explore treatment options that go beyond temporary symptom relief. It’s all about finding what works best to prevent future infections and stay healthy.

If you know you’re experiencing chronic UTIs, you can skip the doctor’s office wait and get care from Hey Jane’s telehealth clinic from the convenience of your phone. You can consult with a licensed clinician via text, chat, phone, or video call and pick up your prescription at your local pharmacy. Click here to get started.