UTI study: negative culture but antibiotics help

TL;DR

A groundbreaking survey by Chronic UTI Australia sheds light on the perplexing scenario where UTI sufferers experience symptom relief from antibiotics despite negative culture results. Over a third of participants reported enduring UTI symptoms for 2-5 years, with a significant number seeing improvement post-antibiotics. This study, involving participants mainly from the UK, USA, and Australia, calls into question the adequacy of current UTI testing and treatment protocols.

A new survey by Chronic UTI Australia reveals what’s really going on under the hood with some shocking numbers.

Key findings of the study include:

  • Over a third of participants had experienced persistent urinary tract infection (UTI) symptoms for between two and five years, with over half experiencing symptoms for six years or longer.
  • 92 per cent of participants had UTI symptoms while returning a negative urine culture.
  • 85 per cent saw an improvement in their UTI symptoms after taking antibiotics, despite the negative culture.
  • Over a third had seen their doctor 6-10 times for UTI symptoms in a single year
  • 71 per cent and 33 per cent were referred to a urologist or a urogynaecologist, respectively, for their persistent UTI symptoms.

The purpose of the research was to see how those with persistent (intermittent or ongoing) UTI symptoms are getting on in terms of testing and treatment.

What we can see is that UTI testing and treatment is not adequate, with cultures not providing the information required.

The survey was conducted with 340 participants, primarily from the United Kingdom, United States and Australia.



Jessica Lloyd - Vulvovaginal Specialist Naturopathic Practitioner, BHSc(N)

Jessica is a degree-qualified naturopath (BHSc) specialising in vulvovaginal health and disease, based in Melbourne, Australia.

Jessica is the owner and lead naturopath of My Vagina, and is a member of the:

  • International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD)
  • International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH)
  • National Vulvodynia Association (NVA) Australia
  • New Zealand Vulvovaginal Society (ANZVS)
  • Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS)
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