How to prepare for a video visit about Recurrent UTIs (Women) - Prevention Plan

Audience: pediatric

Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be uncomfortable and frustrating, especially for young women. Preparing for a video visit with your healthcare provider can help you get the most out of your appointment. During the visit, you will discuss ways to prevent future UTIs, including lifestyle changes and possible treatments. It's important to share your symptoms clearly and have information ready about past infections and treatments. While telemedicine can help with education and planning, some situations may require an in-person visit for tests or urgent care. This guide will help you prepare for your video visit, understand what telemedicine can and cannot do, and know when to seek immediate medical attention.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with chills — seek urgent medical care immediately.
• Severe lower abdominal or back pain — contact healthcare provider promptly.
• Blood in urine or difficulty urinating — arrange for in-person evaluation as soon as possible.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and medical history related to recurrent UTIs.
• Providing education on prevention strategies and lifestyle changes.
• Reviewing current treatments and medications.
• Determining if further in-person tests or care are needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations or pelvic exams.
• Collecting urine samples for testing.
• Managing severe or emergency symptoms such as high fever or inability to urinate.
• Administering treatments or procedures that require direct contact.

What to Expect During Your Video Visit

During your video visit, your healthcare provider will ask about your history of UTIs, symptoms you are currently experiencing, and any treatments you have tried. They will discuss prevention strategies such as hydration, hygiene habits, and possibly medications. You may also talk about lifestyle habits that affect your urinary health. The provider cannot perform a physical exam or collect urine samples through video, so they may recommend an in-person visit if needed.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Prepare a list of your symptoms, including when they started and how often they occur. Have information about any previous UTIs, treatments, and allergies ready. Find a quiet, private place with good internet connection for your visit. Write down any questions or concerns you have about prevention and treatment. Make sure you have a device with a working camera and microphone.

Red Flags: When to Seek Immediate Care

Seek urgent medical attention if you or your child experience:

These signs may indicate a more serious infection requiring in-person evaluation.

Prevention Tips Discussed in the Visit

Common prevention strategies include:

Your provider will tailor advice to your specific situation.

What Telemedicine Can and Cannot Do

Telemedicine CAN:

Telemedicine CANNOT:

Your provider will guide you on next steps based on your needs.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your current symptoms and when they started.
• List previous UTIs, treatments, and any medications you take.
• Prepare questions or concerns about prevention and treatment.
• Ensure your device has a working camera and microphone.
• Find a quiet, private space with good internet connection for the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the prevention plan discussed during the visit.
• Monitor symptoms and report any worsening or new symptoms.
• Schedule in-person visits if recommended by your provider.
• Take medications as prescribed and complete the full course.
• Practice good hygiene and hydration habits consistently.

FAQs

What causes recurrent UTIs in young women?

Recurrent UTIs often happen because bacteria enter the urinary tract repeatedly. Factors like anatomy, hygiene habits, and sometimes certain medical conditions can increase the risk. Your healthcare provider can help identify possible causes during your visit.

Can I treat a UTI without going to the doctor?

While some mild UTI symptoms may improve with home care, recurrent or severe infections usually require medical evaluation and treatment. Telemedicine can help assess your symptoms and advise if you need antibiotics or further testing.

How can I prevent future UTIs?

Prevention tips include drinking plenty of water, urinating regularly, wiping front to back, avoiding irritating products, and wearing breathable underwear. Your provider may also discuss medications or other strategies tailored to you.

When should I seek emergency care for a UTI?

Seek emergency care if you have a high fever with chills, severe pain, blood in your urine, difficulty urinating, or confusion. These signs may indicate a serious infection needing immediate attention.

Sources

1. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) - MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) - Mayo Clinic — Mayo Clinic.
3. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) - CDC — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection in Women: Diagnosis and Management — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have urgent symptoms or concerns, seek immediate medical attention.