Urinary tract infections in women
- Overview
- Theory
- Diagnosis
- Management
- Follow up
- Resources
Treatment algorithm
Please note that formulations/routes and doses may differ between drug names and brands, drug formularies, or locations. Treatment recommendations are specific to patient groups: see disclaimer
uncomplicated
oral antibiotic therapy
Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) include acute cystitis occurring in otherwise healthy, nonpregnant women without functional or anatomic urinary tract abnormalities.
Empiric treatment with antibiotics should be guided by local bacterial susceptibilities and guidelines.[16]Bader MS, Loeb M, Brooks AA. An update on the management of urinary tract infections in the era of antimicrobial resistance. Postgrad Med. 2017 Mar;129(2):242-58. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27712137?tool=bestpractice.com [60]Zalmanovici TA, Green H, Paul M, et al. Antimicrobial agents for treating uncomplicated urinary tract infection in women. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2010 Oct 6;(10):CD007182. https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD007182.pub2/full http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20927755?tool=bestpractice.com Consult your local protocol for guidance on selection of antibiotic regimen.
Nitrofurantoin is usually an effective first-line therapy for cystitis in most women.[1]European Association of Urology. EAU guidelines on urological infections. Mar 2025 [internet publication]. https://d56bochluxqnz.cloudfront.net/documents/full-guideline/EAU-Guidelines-on-Urological-infections-2025.pdf [63]Huttner A, Kowalczyk A, Turjeman A, et al. Effect of 5-day nitrofurantoin vs single-dose fosfomycin on clinical resolution of uncomplicated lower urinary tract infection in women: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA. 2018 May 1;319(17):1781-9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6134435 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29710295?tool=bestpractice.com [64]Tamma PD, Aitken SL, Bonomo RA, et al. Infectious Diseases Society of America 2024 guidance on the treatment of antimicrobial-resistant gram-negative infections. Clin Infect Dis. 2024 Aug 7:ciae403. https://academic.oup.com/cid/advance-article/doi/10.1093/cid/ciae403/7728556?login=false http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/39108079?tool=bestpractice.com
Other recommended options include a single dose of fosfomycin, or a 3-day course of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole in areas where E coli resistance is less than 20%.[1]European Association of Urology. EAU guidelines on urological infections. Mar 2025 [internet publication]. https://d56bochluxqnz.cloudfront.net/documents/full-guideline/EAU-Guidelines-on-Urological-infections-2025.pdf [64]Tamma PD, Aitken SL, Bonomo RA, et al. Infectious Diseases Society of America 2024 guidance on the treatment of antimicrobial-resistant gram-negative infections. Clin Infect Dis. 2024 Aug 7:ciae403. https://academic.oup.com/cid/advance-article/doi/10.1093/cid/ciae403/7728556?login=false http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/39108079?tool=bestpractice.com
Second-line options include an oral cephalosporin (e.g., cephalexin), an alternative beta-lactam (e.g., amoxicillin/clavulanate), or a short-course of a fluoroquinolone (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin).[1]European Association of Urology. EAU guidelines on urological infections. Mar 2025 [internet publication]. https://d56bochluxqnz.cloudfront.net/documents/full-guideline/EAU-Guidelines-on-Urological-infections-2025.pdf [16]Bader MS, Loeb M, Brooks AA. An update on the management of urinary tract infections in the era of antimicrobial resistance. Postgrad Med. 2017 Mar;129(2):242-58. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27712137?tool=bestpractice.com [65]O'Brien KA, Zhang J, Mauldin PD, et al. Impact of a stewardship-initiated restriction on empirical use of ciprofloxacin on nonsusceptibility of Escherichia coli urinary isolates to ciprofloxacin. Pharmacotherapy. 2015 May;35(5):464-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26011139?tool=bestpractice.com
Systemic fluoroquinolone antibiotics may cause serious, disabling, and potentially long-lasting or irreversible adverse events. This includes, but is not limited to: tendinopathy/tendon rupture; peripheral neuropathy; arthropathy/arthralgia; aortic aneurysm and dissection; heart valve regurgitation; dysglycemia; and central nervous system effects including seizures, depression, psychosis, and suicidal thoughts and behavior.[69]Rusu A, Munteanu AC, Arbănași EM, et al. Overview of side-effects of antibacterial fluoroquinolones: new grugs versus old drugs, a step forward in the safety profile? Pharmaceutics. 2023 Mar 1;15(3):804. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10056716 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/36986665?tool=bestpractice.com Prescribing restrictions apply to the use of fluoroquinolones, and these restrictions may vary between countries. In general, fluoroquinolones should be restricted for use in serious, life-threatening bacterial infections only. Some regulatory agencies may also recommend that they must only be used in situations where other antibiotics, that are commonly recommended for the infection, are inappropriate (e.g., resistance, contraindications, treatment failure, unavailability). Consult your local guidelines and drug information source for more information on suitability, contraindications, and precautions.
Primary options
nitrofurantoin: 100 mg orally (modified-release) twice daily for 5 days
OR
fosfomycin tromethamine: 3 g orally as a single dose
OR
sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim: 160 mg orally twice daily for 3 days
More sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprimDose refers to trimethoprim component.
Secondary options
cephalexin: 500 mg orally twice to four times daily for 3-7 days
OR
amoxicillin/clavulanate: 500 mg orally twice daily for 3-7 days
More amoxicillin/clavulanateDose refers to amoxicillin component.
OR
ciprofloxacin: 250 mg orally (immediate-release) twice daily for 3 days; 500 mg orally (extended-release) once daily for 3 days
OR
levofloxacin: 250 mg orally once daily for 3 days
complicated suitable for outpatient therapy: not pregnant
oral antibiotic therapy
Complicated UTIs (cUTIs) include infections in patients with functional or structural impairments that reduce the efficacy of antimicrobial therapy. This may be abnormalities of the genitourinary tract or an underlying condition that interferes with host defense. The involvement of the kidneys (pyelonephritis) or UTI occurring in pregnancy are also considered complicated UTIs.
Urine culture and antimicrobial sensitivity is recommended, and the choice of treatment should be based on confirmed sensitivities. Women with a complicated UTI but mild symptoms may be considered for treatment on an outpatient basis. The optimal antimicrobial therapy for cUTI depends on the severity of illness at presentation, as well as local resistance patterns and specific host factors (e.g., allergies, chronic kidney disease).
Initial broad-spectrum empiric therapy should be followed by administration of an appropriate targeted antimicrobial agent on the basis of the isolated uropathogen once culture results are available.[73]Kranz J, Bartoletti R, Bruyère F, et al. European Association of Urology guidelines on urological infections: summary of the 2024 guidelines. Eur Urol. 2024 Jul;86(1):27-41. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0302283824022632?via%3Dihub http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/38714379?tool=bestpractice.com
Outpatient options may include a cephalosporin (e.g., cefpodoxime) or a fluoroquinolone (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin), depending on local resistance. Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole may be considered as an outpatient option if local resistance is low in conjunction with an initial intravenous dose of a long-acting parenteral antimicrobial (e.g., ceftriaxone).[61]Nelson Z, Aslan AT, Beahm NP, et al. Guidelines for the prevention, diagnosis, and management of urinary tract infections in pediatrics and adults: a WikiGuidelines Group consensus statement. JAMA Netw Open. 2024 Nov 4;7(11):e2444495. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2825634 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/39495518?tool=bestpractice.com [73]Kranz J, Bartoletti R, Bruyère F, et al. European Association of Urology guidelines on urological infections: summary of the 2024 guidelines. Eur Urol. 2024 Jul;86(1):27-41. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0302283824022632?via%3Dihub http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/38714379?tool=bestpractice.com
Considering the current resistance percentages of amoxicillin, amoxicillin/clavulanate, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, these agents are not suitable for the treatment of all cUTIs. The same applies to ciprofloxacin and other fluoroquinolones in urologic patients, and/or if they have used fluoroquinolones within the past 6 months, or when local resistance is high. Fluoroquinolones should only be recommended as empiric treatment when the patient is not seriously ill and it is considered safe to start initial oral treatment, or if the patient has had an anaphylactic reaction to beta-lactams.[73]Kranz J, Bartoletti R, Bruyère F, et al. European Association of Urology guidelines on urological infections: summary of the 2024 guidelines. Eur Urol. 2024 Jul;86(1):27-41. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0302283824022632?via%3Dihub http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/38714379?tool=bestpractice.com
Systemic fluoroquinolone antibiotics may cause serious, disabling, and potentially long-lasting or irreversible adverse events. This includes, but is not limited to: tendinopathy/tendon rupture; peripheral neuropathy; arthropathy/arthralgia; aortic aneurysm and dissection; heart valve regurgitation; dysglycemia; and central nervous system effects including seizures, depression, psychosis, and suicidal thoughts and behavior.[69]Rusu A, Munteanu AC, Arbănași EM, et al. Overview of side-effects of antibacterial fluoroquinolones: new grugs versus old drugs, a step forward in the safety profile? Pharmaceutics. 2023 Mar 1;15(3):804. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10056716 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/36986665?tool=bestpractice.com Prescribing restrictions apply to the use of fluoroquinolones, and these restrictions may vary between countries. In general, fluoroquinolones should be restricted for use in serious, life-threatening bacterial infections only. Some regulatory agencies may also recommend that they must only be used in situations where other antibiotics, that are commonly recommended for the infection, are inappropriate (e.g., resistance, contraindications, treatment failure, unavailability). Consult your local guidelines and drug information source for more information on suitability, contraindications, and precautions.
Longer courses of oral antibiotics are generally used, compared with uncomplicated UTI.[1]European Association of Urology. EAU guidelines on urological infections. Mar 2025 [internet publication]. https://d56bochluxqnz.cloudfront.net/documents/full-guideline/EAU-Guidelines-on-Urological-infections-2025.pdf
Nonpregnant women with febrile UTI can be successfully treated with a 7-day course of appropriate antibiotics.[70]van Nieuwkoop C, van der Starre WE, Stalenhoef JE, et al. Treatment duration of febrile urinary tract infection: a pragmatic randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled non-inferiority trial in men and women. BMC Med. 2017 Apr 3;15(1):70. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5376681 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28366170?tool=bestpractice.com
When a UTI is present in a patient with a catheter or stent, catheter or stent change should be strongly considered.[1]European Association of Urology. EAU guidelines on urological infections. Mar 2025 [internet publication]. https://d56bochluxqnz.cloudfront.net/documents/full-guideline/EAU-Guidelines-on-Urological-infections-2025.pdf
Consult your local protocol for guidance on selection of antibiotic regimen.
Primary options
ciprofloxacin: 500-750 mg orally twice daily for 5-7 days
OR
levofloxacin: 750 mg orally once daily for 5-7 days
OR
cefpodoxime proxetil: 200 mg orally twice daily for 10-14 days
Secondary options
sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim: 160 mg orally twice daily for 14 days
More sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprimDose refers to trimethoprim component.
and
ceftriaxone: 1 g intravenously as a single dose at the start of treatment.
OR
amoxicillin/clavulanate: 875 mg orally twice daily for 10-14 days
More amoxicillin/clavulanateDose refers to amoxicillin component.
complicated suitable for outpatient therapy: pregnant
oral antibiotic therapy
Complicated UTIs include infections in patients with functional or structural impairments that reduce the efficacy of antimicrobial therapy. This may be abnormalities of the genitourinary tract or an underlying condition that interferes with host defense. The involvement of the kidneys (pyelonephritis) or UTI occurring in pregnancy are also considered complicated UTIs.
Pregnant women with mild symptoms can be treated on an outpatient basis.
Urine culture and antimicrobial sensitivity is recommended, and the choice of treatment should be based on confirmed sensitivities. Oral antibiotic options include cephalexin, nitrofurantoin, amoxicillin/clavulanate, or trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. Penicillins, cephalosporins, and nitrofurantoin are considered to be safe in pregnancy; however, there are some data suggesting possible congenital anomalies associated with nitrofurantoin and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (a sulfonamide) if used in the first trimester, but data is mixed and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) suggests that nitrofurantoin and sulfonamides are reasonable choices in the first trimester if no appropriate alternatives are available. ACOG also notes that nitrofurantoin and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole can continue as first-line treatment for UTI in the second and third trimesters.[56]The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Urinary tract infections in pregnant individuals. Obstet Gynecol. 2023 Aug 1;142(2):435-45. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/clinical-consensus/articles/2023/08/urinary-tract-infections-in-pregnant-individuals http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/37473414?tool=bestpractice.com Nitrofurantoin is not recommended at term due to the risk of hemolytic anemia in the baby and should also be avoided in patients with known glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenate deficiency. There are risks of pulmonary and hepatic adverse drug reactions with nitrofurantoin and clinicians should be vigilant for signs and symptoms that may need further investigation.[75]Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. Nitrofurantoin: reminder of the risks of pulmonary and hepatic adverse drug reactions. Apr 2023 [internet publication]. https://www.gov.uk/drug-safety-update/nitrofurantoin-reminder-of-the-risks-of-pulmonary-and-hepatic-adverse-drug-reactions
If empiric therapy is started before sensitivities are available the ACOG advise that amoxicillin is avoided due to high rates of resistance in Escherichia coli to these antibiotics in most areas.[56]The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Urinary tract infections in pregnant individuals. Obstet Gynecol. 2023 Aug 1;142(2):435-45. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/clinical-consensus/articles/2023/08/urinary-tract-infections-in-pregnant-individuals http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/37473414?tool=bestpractice.com
Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole should also be avoided before culture results are available in areas where resistance is known to be above 20%.[56]The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Urinary tract infections in pregnant individuals. Obstet Gynecol. 2023 Aug 1;142(2):435-45. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/clinical-consensus/articles/2023/08/urinary-tract-infections-in-pregnant-individuals http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/37473414?tool=bestpractice.com
When a UTI is present in a patient with a catheter or stent, catheter or stent change should be strongly considered.[1]European Association of Urology. EAU guidelines on urological infections. Mar 2025 [internet publication]. https://d56bochluxqnz.cloudfront.net/documents/full-guideline/EAU-Guidelines-on-Urological-infections-2025.pdf
Empiric antibiotic treatment should be considered for acute cystitis in pregnancy, with a urine culture requested to confirm sensitivities.
There is insufficient evidence to guide management after acute cystitis treatment in pregnancy, but clinicians may consider repeating urine cultures 1-2 weeks after completion of treatment or evaluating only if symptoms recur.[56]The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Urinary tract infections in pregnant individuals. Obstet Gynecol. 2023 Aug 1;142(2):435-45. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/clinical-consensus/articles/2023/08/urinary-tract-infections-in-pregnant-individuals http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/37473414?tool=bestpractice.com
Targeted antibiotic treatment for 5-7 days should be considered for acute cystitis in pregnancy following a urine culture.[56]The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Urinary tract infections in pregnant individuals. Obstet Gynecol. 2023 Aug 1;142(2):435-45. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/clinical-consensus/articles/2023/08/urinary-tract-infections-in-pregnant-individuals http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/37473414?tool=bestpractice.com
Consult your local protocol for guidance on selection of antibiotic regimen.
Primary options
cephalexin: 250-500 mg orally four times daily for 5-7 days
Secondary options
nitrofurantoin: 100 mg orally (modified-release) twice daily for 5-7 days
OR
amoxicillin/clavulanate: 500 mg orally three times daily for 5-7 days; or 875 mg orally twice daily for 5-7 days
More amoxicillin/clavulanateDose refers to amoxicillin component.
OR
sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim: 160 mg orally twice daily for 5-7 days
More sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprimDose refers to trimethoprim component.
complicated requiring inpatient therapy: not pregnant
intravenous antibiotic therapy
Hospitalization and parenteral antibiotics should be considered for women with fever, elevated WBC count, emesis, or volume depletion that are present in addition to typical UTI symptoms. When a UTI is present in a patient with a catheter or stent, catheter or stent change should be strongly considered.[1]European Association of Urology. EAU guidelines on urological infections. Mar 2025 [internet publication]. https://d56bochluxqnz.cloudfront.net/documents/full-guideline/EAU-Guidelines-on-Urological-infections-2025.pdf
Parenteral antibiotics can be given until clinical improvement and then, as condition improves, equivalent oral antibiotics can be given for the remainder of the course.
Examples of suitable parenteral antibiotic regimens include an aminoglycoside (e.g., gentamicin) with or without ampicillin, an extended-spectrum cephalosporin (e.g., ceftriaxone) with or without gentamicin, an extended-spectrum penicillin (e.g., piperacillin/tazobactam), a fluoroquinolone (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin), or a carbapenem (e.g., meropenem).[1]European Association of Urology. EAU guidelines on urological infections. Mar 2025 [internet publication]. https://d56bochluxqnz.cloudfront.net/documents/full-guideline/EAU-Guidelines-on-Urological-infections-2025.pdf [61]Nelson Z, Aslan AT, Beahm NP, et al. Guidelines for the prevention, diagnosis, and management of urinary tract infections in pediatrics and adults: a WikiGuidelines Group consensus statement. JAMA Netw Open. 2024 Nov 4;7(11):e2444495. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2825634 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/39495518?tool=bestpractice.com [74]Bader MS, Hawboldt J, Brooks A. Management of complicated urinary tract infections in the era of antimicrobial resistance. Postgrad Med. 2010 Nov;122(6):7-15. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21084776?tool=bestpractice.com Choice depends on local resistance data and susceptibility results. The European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines advise against use of a fluoroquinolone for urology inpatients, due to increased resistance.[1]European Association of Urology. EAU guidelines on urological infections. Mar 2025 [internet publication]. https://d56bochluxqnz.cloudfront.net/documents/full-guideline/EAU-Guidelines-on-Urological-infections-2025.pdf
Systemic fluoroquinolone antibiotics may cause serious, disabling, and potentially long-lasting or irreversible adverse events. This includes, but is not limited to, tendinopathy/tendon rupture; peripheral neuropathy; arthropathy/arthralgia; aortic aneurysm and dissection; heart valve regurgitation; dysglycemia; and central nervous system effects including seizures, depression, psychosis, and suicidal thoughts and behavior.[69]Rusu A, Munteanu AC, Arbănași EM, et al. Overview of side-effects of antibacterial fluoroquinolones: new grugs versus old drugs, a step forward in the safety profile? Pharmaceutics. 2023 Mar 1;15(3):804. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10056716 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/36986665?tool=bestpractice.com Prescribing restrictions apply to the use of fluoroquinolones, and these restrictions may vary between countries. In general, fluoroquinolones should be restricted for use in serious, life-threatening bacterial infections only. Some regulatory agencies may also recommend that they must only be used in situations where other antibiotics, that are commonly recommended for the infection, are inappropriate (e.g., resistance, contraindications, treatment failure, unavailability). Consult your local guidelines and drug information source for more information on suitability, contraindications, and precautions.
Consult your local protocol for guidance on selection of antibiotic regimen.
Primary options
gentamicin: 5-7 mg/kg intravenously every 24 hours
More gentamicinAdjust dose according to serum gentamicin level.
OR
ceftriaxone: 1-2 g intravenously every 24 hours
OR
ampicillin: 1-2 g intravenously every 4-6 hours
and
gentamicin: 5-7 mg/kg intravenously every 24 hours
More gentamicinAdjust dose according to serum gentamicin level.
OR
ceftriaxone: 1-2 g intravenously every 24 hours
and
gentamicin: 5-7 mg/kg intravenously every 24 hours
More gentamicinAdjust dose according to serum gentamicin level.
OR
ciprofloxacin: 400 mg intravenously every 12 hours
OR
levofloxacin: 750 mg intravenously every 24 hours
OR
meropenem: 1 g intravenously every 8 hours
OR
piperacillin/tazobactam: 3.375 g intravenously every 6 hours
More piperacillin/tazobactamDose consists of 3 g of piperacillin plus 0.375 g of tazobactam.
definitive treatment of underlying abnormality
Treatment recommended for ALL patients in selected patient group
If the patient has hydronephrosis, then the etiology of the hydronephrosis should be evaluated and treated.
Likewise, if the patient has a renal abscess, this should be drained and treated.
complicated requiring inpatient therapy: pregnant
alternative intravenous antibiotic therapy
Hospitalization and parenteral antibiotics should be considered for pregnant women with fever, elevated WBC count, emesis, or volume depletion that are present in addition to typical UTI symptoms. When a UTI is present in a patient with a catheter or stent, catheter or stent change should be strongly considered.[1]European Association of Urology. EAU guidelines on urological infections. Mar 2025 [internet publication]. https://d56bochluxqnz.cloudfront.net/documents/full-guideline/EAU-Guidelines-on-Urological-infections-2025.pdf
Parenteral antibiotics can be given until clinical improvement and then, as condition improves, equivalent oral antibiotics can be given for the remainder of the course.
Pregnant women should not be denied appropriate treatment for infections because untreated infections can commonly lead to serious maternal and fetal complications.[78]Committee on Obstetric Practice. Committee opinion no. 717: sulfonamides, nitrofurantoin, and risk of birth defects. Obstet Gynecol. 2017 Sep;130(3):e150-52. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28832488?tool=bestpractice.com
Physicians must consider the risk posed by particular antibiotics during pregnancy. Penicillins and cephalosporins are considered to be safe in pregnancy. Aminoglycosides and fluoroquinolones should only be used in pregnant women when the benefits of treatment outweigh the associated risks. The risks associated with the use of aminoglycosides are mainly nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity; however, with appropriate dosing and monitoring of serum trough levels, many specialists use these drugs in pregnancy as there are data supporting their use.[76]Ward K, Theiler RN. Once-daily dosing of gentamicin in obstetrics and gynecology. Clin Obstet Gynecol. 2008;51(3):498-506. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2650501 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18677142?tool=bestpractice.com There have been case reports of fetal toxicity when used in pregnancy, so caution is advised. Previously, there were concerns about using fluoroquinolones in pregnancy due to reports of arthropathy in animal studies; however, reports are rare in humans.[77]Lee M, Bozzo P, Einarson A, et al. Urinary tract infections in pregnancy. Can Fam Physician. 2008;54(6):853-4. http://www.cfp.ca/content/54/6/853.long http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18556490?tool=bestpractice.com A specialist should be consulted for guidance when selecting an appropriate antibiotic regimen in pregnant women.
Examples of suitable antibiotic regimens in pregnant women with a complicated UTI requiring hospitalization, or suspected pyelonephritis, include ampicillin plus gentamicin, ceftriaxone, cefepime, or aztreonam (in patients with a beta-lactam allergy).[56]The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Urinary tract infections in pregnant individuals. Obstet Gynecol. 2023 Aug 1;142(2):435-45. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/clinical-consensus/articles/2023/08/urinary-tract-infections-in-pregnant-individuals http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/37473414?tool=bestpractice.com After clinical improvement, patients should be transitioned to appropriate oral antibiotics based on culture sensitivity to complete a 14-day course of therapy.[56]The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Urinary tract infections in pregnant individuals. Obstet Gynecol. 2023 Aug 1;142(2):435-45. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/clinical-consensus/articles/2023/08/urinary-tract-infections-in-pregnant-individuals http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/37473414?tool=bestpractice.com
Choice depends on local resistance data and susceptibility results.[1]European Association of Urology. EAU guidelines on urological infections. Mar 2025 [internet publication]. https://d56bochluxqnz.cloudfront.net/documents/full-guideline/EAU-Guidelines-on-Urological-infections-2025.pdf
Primary options
ampicillin: 2 g intravenously every 6 hours
and
gentamicin: 5 mg/kg intravenously every 24 hours; or 1.5 mg/kg intravenously every 8 hours
More gentamicinAdjust dose according to serum gentamicin level.
OR
ceftriaxone: 1 g intravenously every 24 hours
OR
cefepime: 1 g intravenously every 12 hours
Secondary options
aztreonam: 1 g intravenously every 8-12 hours
definitive treatment of underlying abnormality
Treatment recommended for SOME patients in selected patient group
If the patient has symptomatic hydronephrosis, this should be treated. Usually conservative management with analgesia, intravenous fluids, and antibiotics is sufficient in pregnancy. Hydronephrosis is a common physiologic condition in pregnancy and disappears rapidly after birth.
Renal abscess is an unusual finding in pregnancy. The underlying etiology should be evaluated and treatment determined based on this and clinical symptoms. Deferring treatment until after pregnancy may be considered.
uncomplicated recurrent (3 or more in 12 months): related to sexual intercourse
postcoital antibiotic therapy
Recurrent UTI prevention includes counseling regarding avoidance of risk factors, employing nonantimicrobial measures, and ultimately using antimicrobial prophylaxis if these do not work.[73]Kranz J, Bartoletti R, Bruyère F, et al. European Association of Urology guidelines on urological infections: summary of the 2024 guidelines. Eur Urol. 2024 Jul;86(1):27-41. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0302283824022632?via%3Dihub http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/38714379?tool=bestpractice.com If sexual intercourse has a temporal relationship with UTI, postcoital therapy may be appropriate.
Single-dose antibiotic therapy after sexual intercourse has been shown to reduce the incidence of infection.[80]Hickling DR, Nitti VW. Management of recurrent urinary tract infections in healthy adult women. Rev Urol. 2013;15(2):41-8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3784967 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24082842?tool=bestpractice.com The single dose should be taken as soon as possible after sexual intercourse.
Primary options
nitrofurantoin: 100 mg orally (modified-release) as a single dose
OR
trimethoprim: 100 mg orally as a single dose
OR
sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim: 80 mg orally as a single dose
More sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprimDose refers to trimethoprim component.
intravaginal estrogen therapy
Local estrogen therapy restores the normal vaginal flora and reduces the risk of vaginal colonization by Escherichia coli.[84]Stapleton AE. The vaginal microbiota and urinary tract infection. Microbiol Spectr. 2016 Dec;4(6):. www.doi.org/10.1128/microbiolspec.UTI-0025-2016 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28087949?tool=bestpractice.com Vaginally applied estrogen therapy results in a decreased incidence and longer time to recurrence of UTI in hypoestrogenic women.[2]Bixler BR, Anger JT. Updates to recurrent uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women: AUA/CUA/SUFU guideline. J Urol. 2022 Oct;208(4):754-6. https://www.auajournals.org/doi/10.1097/JU.0000000000002888 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/35914319?tool=bestpractice.com May be used in postmenopausal women who are not taking oral estrogen.
Systemic estrogen therapy is not recommended over the use of topical estrogen therapy when symptoms are localized to the urogenital tract, given the benefit of reduced estrogen absorption when topical agents are used.[30]Trinkaus M, Chin S, Wolfman W, et al. Should urogenital atrophy in breast cancer survivors be treated with topical estrogens? Oncologist. 2008 Mar;13(3):222-31. http://theoncologist.alphamedpress.org/content/13/3/222.full http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18378532?tool=bestpractice.com
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) recommends limiting the use of high-strength estradiol vaginal creams (containing estradiol 100 micrograms/g or 0.01%) to a single treatment period of up to 4 weeks due to the risk of adverse effects usually associated with systemic (oral or transdermal) hormone replacement therapy. This formulation should not be used in patients already on hormone replacement therapy.[86]European Medicines Agency. Four-week limit for use of high-strength estradiol creams. October 2019 [internet publication]. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/news/four-week-limit-use-high-strength-estradiol-creams Other vaginal estrogen formulations (e.g., conjugated estrogen cream, estradiol intravaginal tablets and rings) are available and may be preferred.
EAU guidelines support topical estrogen as a preventive treatment for rUTI in postmenopausal women.[73]Kranz J, Bartoletti R, Bruyère F, et al. European Association of Urology guidelines on urological infections: summary of the 2024 guidelines. Eur Urol. 2024 Jul;86(1):27-41. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0302283824022632?via%3Dihub http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/38714379?tool=bestpractice.com [87]Antoniou V, Somani BK. Topical and oral oestrogen for recurrent urinary tract infection - evidence-based review of literature, treatment recommendations, and correlation with the European Association of Urology guidelines on urological infections. Eur Urol Focus. 2022 Nov;8(6):1768-74. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/35662505?tool=bestpractice.com
Primary options
estrogens, conjugated vaginal: (0.625 mg/g cream) insert 0.5 to 2 g into the vagina once daily for 21 days, followed by no treatment for 7 days then repeat
OR
estradiol vaginal: (intravaginal tablets) 10 micrograms (1 tablet) into the vagina once daily for 2 weeks, followed by 10 micrograms (1 tablet) twice weekly thereafter; (intravaginal ring) 1 ring (7.5 micrograms/24 hours or 50-100 micrograms/24 hours) inserted into the vagina and replaced every 3 months, dose depends on brand used; (100 micrograms/g or 0.01% cream) insert 2-4 g (200-400 micrograms) into the vagina once daily for 1-2 weeks, then taper dose gradually over 1-2 weeks to maintenance dose of 1 g (100 micrograms) once to three times weekly
More estradiol vaginalUse of estradiol 0.01% (100 micrograms/g) cream should be limited to a single treatment period of up to 4 weeks.[86]European Medicines Agency. Four-week limit for use of high-strength estradiol creams. October 2019 [internet publication]. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/news/four-week-limit-use-high-strength-estradiol-creams
postcoital antibiotic therapy
Treatment recommended for ALL patients in selected patient group
Recurrent UTI prevention includes counseling regarding avoidance of risk factors, employing nonantimicrobial measures, and ultimately using antimicrobial prophylaxis if these do not work.[73]Kranz J, Bartoletti R, Bruyère F, et al. European Association of Urology guidelines on urological infections: summary of the 2024 guidelines. Eur Urol. 2024 Jul;86(1):27-41. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0302283824022632?via%3Dihub http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/38714379?tool=bestpractice.com If sexual intercourse has a temporal relationship with UTI, postcoital therapy may be appropriate.
Single-dose antibiotic therapy after sexual intercourse has been shown to reduce the incidence of infection.[80]Hickling DR, Nitti VW. Management of recurrent urinary tract infections in healthy adult women. Rev Urol. 2013;15(2):41-8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3784967 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24082842?tool=bestpractice.com The single dose should be taken as soon as possible after sexual intercourse.
Primary options
nitrofurantoin: 100 mg orally (modified-release) as a single dose
OR
trimethoprim: 100 mg orally as a single dose
OR
sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim: 80 mg orally as a single dose
More sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprimDose refers to trimethoprim component.
uncomplicated recurrent (3 or more in 12 months): unrelated to sexual intercourse
low-dose prophylactic antibiotic
Recurrent UTI prevention includes counseling regarding avoidance of risk factors, employing nonantimicrobial measures, and ultimately using antimicrobial prophylaxis if these do not work.[73]Kranz J, Bartoletti R, Bruyère F, et al. European Association of Urology guidelines on urological infections: summary of the 2024 guidelines. Eur Urol. 2024 Jul;86(1):27-41. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0302283824022632?via%3Dihub http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/38714379?tool=bestpractice.com
The risk of UTI can be reduced with low-dose antimicrobial prophylaxis. In a systematic review, antibiotics were the most efficacious therapy, but were associated with a higher incidence of systemic side effects.[85]Dueñas-Garcia OF, Sullivan G, Hall CD, et al. Pharmacological agents to decrease new episodes of recurrent lower urinary tract infections in postmenopausal women. A systematic review. Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg. 2016 Mar-Apr;22(2):63-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26825411?tool=bestpractice.com The decision to initiate prophylaxis is usually based on clinical judgment and patient preference.
If, during therapy, the woman experiences a symptomatic infection, therapeutic dosing with another agent should be instituted, followed by reinstituting the prophylaxis regimen.
Primary options
nitrofurantoin: 100 mg orally (modified-release) once daily at bedtime
OR
trimethoprim: 100 mg orally once daily at bedtime
OR
sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim: 80 mg orally once daily at bedtime
More sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprimDose refers to trimethoprim component.
antibiotic self-treatment
Recurrent UTI prevention includes counseling regarding avoidance of risk factors, employing nonantimicrobial measures, and ultimately using antimicrobial prophylaxis if these do not work.[73]Kranz J, Bartoletti R, Bruyère F, et al. European Association of Urology guidelines on urological infections: summary of the 2024 guidelines. Eur Urol. 2024 Jul;86(1):27-41. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0302283824022632?via%3Dihub http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/38714379?tool=bestpractice.com
Self-diagnosis and self-initiation of therapy is appropriate for treatment-adherent women with a history of recurrent cystitis and low risk for sexually transmitted disease.[82]Gupta K, Sahm DF, Mayfield D, et al. Antimicrobial resistance among uropathogens that cause community-acquired urinary tract infections in women: a nationwide analysis. Clin Infect Dis. 2001 Jul 1;33(1):89-94. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11389500?tool=bestpractice.com Self-initiated therapy involves the patient identifying symptoms of infection and initiating treatment.[83]Gupta K, Hooton TM, Roberts PL, et al. Patient-initiated treatment of uncomplicated recurrent urinary tract infections in young women. Ann Intern Med. 2001 Jul 3;135(1):9-16. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11434727?tool=bestpractice.com
Primary options
nitrofurantoin: 100 mg orally (modified-release) twice daily for 5 days
OR
sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim: 160 mg orally twice daily for 3 days
More sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprimDose refers to trimethoprim component.
OR
fosfomycin tromethamine: 3 g orally as a single dose
intravaginal estrogen therapy
Local estrogen therapy restores the normal vaginal flora and reduces the risk of vaginal colonization by Escherichia coli.[84]Stapleton AE. The vaginal microbiota and urinary tract infection. Microbiol Spectr. 2016 Dec;4(6):. www.doi.org/10.1128/microbiolspec.UTI-0025-2016 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28087949?tool=bestpractice.com Vaginally applied estrogen therapy results in a decreased incidence and longer time to recurrence of UTI in hypoestrogenic women.[2]Bixler BR, Anger JT. Updates to recurrent uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women: AUA/CUA/SUFU guideline. J Urol. 2022 Oct;208(4):754-6. https://www.auajournals.org/doi/10.1097/JU.0000000000002888 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/35914319?tool=bestpractice.com May be used in postmenopausal women who are not taking oral estrogen.
Systemic estrogen therapy is not recommended over the use of topical estrogen therapy when symptoms are localized to the urogenital tract, given the benefit of reduced estrogen absorption when topical agents are used.[30]Trinkaus M, Chin S, Wolfman W, et al. Should urogenital atrophy in breast cancer survivors be treated with topical estrogens? Oncologist. 2008 Mar;13(3):222-31. http://theoncologist.alphamedpress.org/content/13/3/222.full http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18378532?tool=bestpractice.com
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) recommends limiting the use of high-strength estradiol vaginal creams (containing estradiol 100 micrograms/g or 0.01%) to a single treatment period of up to 4 weeks due to the risk of adverse effects usually associated with systemic (oral or transdermal) hormone replacement therapy. This formulation should not be used in patients already on hormone replacement therapy.[86]European Medicines Agency. Four-week limit for use of high-strength estradiol creams. October 2019 [internet publication]. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/news/four-week-limit-use-high-strength-estradiol-creams Other vaginal estrogen formulations (e.g., conjugated estrogen cream, estradiol intravaginal tablets and rings) are available and may be preferred.
EAU guidelines support topical estrogen (either as a creme or a pessary) as a preventive treatment for recurrent UTI in postmenopausal women.[73]Kranz J, Bartoletti R, Bruyère F, et al. European Association of Urology guidelines on urological infections: summary of the 2024 guidelines. Eur Urol. 2024 Jul;86(1):27-41. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0302283824022632?via%3Dihub http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/38714379?tool=bestpractice.com [87]Antoniou V, Somani BK. Topical and oral oestrogen for recurrent urinary tract infection - evidence-based review of literature, treatment recommendations, and correlation with the European Association of Urology guidelines on urological infections. Eur Urol Focus. 2022 Nov;8(6):1768-74. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/35662505?tool=bestpractice.com
Primary options
estrogens, conjugated vaginal: (0.625 mg/g cream) insert 0.5 to 2 g into the vagina once daily for 21 days, followed by no treatment for 7 days then repeat
OR
estradiol vaginal: (intravaginal tablets) 10 micrograms (1 tablet) into the vagina once daily for 2 weeks, followed by 10 micrograms (1 tablet) twice weekly thereafter; (intravaginal ring) 1 ring (7.5 micrograms/24 hours or 50-100 micrograms/24 hours) inserted into the vagina and replaced every 3 months, dose depends on brand used; (100 micrograms/g or 0.01% cream) insert 2-4 g (200-400 micrograms) into the vagina once daily for 1-2 weeks, then taper dose gradually over 1-2 weeks to maintenance dose of 1 g (100 micrograms) once to three times weekly
More estradiol vaginalUse of estradiol 0.01% (100 micrograms/g) cream should be limited to a single treatment period of up to 4 weeks.[86]European Medicines Agency. Four-week limit for use of high-strength estradiol creams. October 2019 [internet publication]. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/news/four-week-limit-use-high-strength-estradiol-creams
low-dose prophylactic antibiotic
Treatment recommended for SOME patients in selected patient group
Recurrent UTI prevention includes counseling regarding avoidance of risk factors, employing nonantimicrobial measures, and ultimately using antimicrobial prophylaxis if these do not work.[73]Kranz J, Bartoletti R, Bruyère F, et al. European Association of Urology guidelines on urological infections: summary of the 2024 guidelines. Eur Urol. 2024 Jul;86(1):27-41. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0302283824022632?via%3Dihub http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/38714379?tool=bestpractice.com
The risk of UTI can be reduced with low-dose antimicrobial prophylaxis. In a systematic review, antibiotics were the most efficacious therapy, but were associated with a higher incidence of systemic side effects.[85]Dueñas-Garcia OF, Sullivan G, Hall CD, et al. Pharmacological agents to decrease new episodes of recurrent lower urinary tract infections in postmenopausal women. A systematic review. Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg. 2016 Mar-Apr;22(2):63-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26825411?tool=bestpractice.com The decision to initiate prophylaxis is usually based on clinical judgment and patient preference.
If, during therapy, the woman experiences a symptomatic infection, therapeutic dosing with another agent should be instituted, followed by reinstituting the prophylaxis regimen.
Primary options
nitrofurantoin: 100 mg orally (modified-release) once daily at bedtime
OR
trimethoprim: 100 mg orally once daily at bedtime
OR
sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim: 80 mg orally once daily at bedtime
More sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprimDose refers to trimethoprim component.
antibiotic self-treatment
Treatment recommended for SOME patients in selected patient group
Self-diagnosis and self-initiation of therapy is appropriate for treatment-adherent women with a history of recurrent cystitis and low risk for sexually transmitted disease.[82]Gupta K, Sahm DF, Mayfield D, et al. Antimicrobial resistance among uropathogens that cause community-acquired urinary tract infections in women: a nationwide analysis. Clin Infect Dis. 2001 Jul 1;33(1):89-94. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11389500?tool=bestpractice.com Self-initiated therapy involves the patient identifying symptoms of infection and initiating treatment.[83]Gupta K, Hooton TM, Roberts PL, et al. Patient-initiated treatment of uncomplicated recurrent urinary tract infections in young women. Ann Intern Med. 2001 Jul 3;135(1):9-16. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11434727?tool=bestpractice.com
Primary options
nitrofurantoin: 100 mg orally (modified-release) twice daily for 5 days
OR
sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim: 160 mg orally twice daily for 3 days
More sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprimDose refers to trimethoprim component.
OR
fosfomycin tromethamine: 3 g orally as a single dose
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