DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I’m suffering from another urinary tract infection, which seems to be happening a lot. Why do I keep getting UTIs, and what can I do about them?

ANSWER: Recurrent urinary tract infections, or UTIs, can be frustrating and uncomfortable. But not all urinary symptoms come from an infection. Understanding what’s really happening — and why — can make a big difference in finding lasting relief.

What’s a true UTI?

A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria invade part of your urinary system — your kidneys, bladder, ureters or urethra. A simple bladder infection, or cystitis, typically causes pain or burning when you urinate, called dysuria. You also may notice lower abdominal or flank pain.

In most cases, these infections respond well to antibiotics. But if your symptoms keep coming back, it’s important to look deeper. A urine analysis or culture can identify which bacteria are causing the problem and help guide the choice of antibiotic.

Sometimes, imaging, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, is needed to check for an underlying cause, such as kidney stones, which can harbor bacteria. Implanted devices, such as a stent or pessary, also can provide a home for infection.

When it’s not a true UTI

It’s a common misconception that bacteria found in urine always mean infection. In reality, bacteria can live harmlessly in the urinary tract. Many conditions can mimic UTIs, especially in women. These include:

Steps for prevention and treatment

When it’s clear that you’re experiencing true recurrent UTIs, there are several strategies to help prevent them:

How to advocate for yourself

If you’re struggling with frequent UTIs or symptoms that keep returning, be proactive during your next appointment. Here are five questions to ask your clinician:

A team approach makes a difference

Whether your symptoms are caused by a true infection or something that looks like one, the key is persistence. There’s almost always an answer — you just need a careful, thoughtful approach that looks beyond the obvious and focuses on you as a whole person.

—Adi Shah, M.B.B.S., Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota

(Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. This Mayo Clinic Q&A represents inquiries this healthcare expert has received from patients. For more information, visit www.mayoclinic.org.)

©2026 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All Rights Reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.