Why Do I Keep Getting UTIs? A GP Explains the Common Causes

Why Do I Keep Getting UTIs? A GP Explains the Common Causes

11th September 2026

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common bacterial infections, particularly in women.

For many people, they’re an occasional inconvenience that clears up quickly with treatment. But if you find yourself getting UTIs repeatedly, it’s natural to wonder why they keep coming back.

The good news is that recurrent UTIs are common, and in many cases there are practical steps that can help reduce the risk.

What is a UTI?
A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria enter the urinary system, most commonly affecting the bladder. Typical symptoms include:

• A burning or stinging sensation when passing urine.
• Needing to urinate more often than usual.
• Feeling an urgent need to urinate.
• Lower abdominal discomfort.
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine.

Some people may also notice blood in their urine.

If you develop a high temperature, pain in your back or side, or feel generally very unwell, the infection may have spread to the kidneys and you should seek medical advice promptly.

Why do UTIs keep coming back?
There isn’t always one single cause. Recurring UTIs can happen for a number of reasons, including:

• Being sexually active.
• Not fully emptying the bladder.
• Changes after menopause.
• Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes.
• Kidney stones or other urinary tract problems.
• Previous urinary tract infections.
• Dehydration.

For some women, no obvious cause is identified despite appropriate investigation.

Menopause and UTIs
Many women notice they begin experiencing more frequent UTIs after the menopause. As oestrogen levels fall, the tissues around the bladder and urethra become thinner and less resilient, making infections more likely.

If recurrent UTIs develop around the time of menopause, it’s worth discussing this with your GP, as there may be treatments that can help reduce the risk, including vaginal oestrogen.

Can you prevent UTIs?
While it’s not always possible to prevent every infection, some simple measures may help reduce the likelihood of UTIs:

• Stay well hydrated.
• Don’t delay passing urine when you need to go.
• Wipe from front to back after using the toilet.
• Maintain good personal hygiene.
• Urinate after sex if this is part of your normal routine.
• Avoid using perfumed products around the genital area.

If you’re experiencing frequent UTIs, it’s important not to self-treat repeatedly without medical advice.

When should you see a GP?
It’s worth arranging an appointment if:

• You keep getting UTIs.
• Your symptoms aren’t improving.
• You notice blood in your urine.
• Your symptoms keep returning after treatment.
• You develop fever, chills or pain in your lower back or side.

Recurring infections may require further assessment to identify any underlying cause and ensure you’re receiving the most appropriate treatment.

How Bond Medical can help
At Bond Medical, our experienced GPs provide thorough assessments for patients experiencing urinary symptoms or recurrent UTIs.

We’ll take the time to understand your symptoms, review your medical history and discuss whether further investigation or treatment is appropriate. If specialist care is needed, we’ll ensure you’re referred promptly to the right service.

Book a GP appointment
If you’re experiencing frequent urinary tract infections or ongoing urinary symptoms, don’t ignore them.

Our experienced GPs are here to help identify the cause, discuss treatment options and help you reduce the risk of future infections.

References
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) (2024) Urinary tract infection (lower): antimicrobial prescribing (NG109). Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng109 (Accessed: 6 August 2026).

NHS (2025) Urinary tract infections (UTIs). Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-tract-infections-utis/ (Accessed: 6 August 2026).

Patient.info (2025) Urine Infection (Urinary Tract Infection) in Women. Available at: https://patient.info (Accessed: 6 August 2026).