Episode 9 - Why do I keep getting UTIs

For this episode, we have Marianna Pucillo, a nurse practitioner who specializes in urology in Northern California. Today, we will be talking about UTI.  UTIs are a huge issue in urology and pelvic floor therapy. We received a letter from Maya of Houston, Texas. She is 45 years old and she keeps getting diagnosed with UTI. Whenever she gets such diagnosis, she is constantly put on antibiotics but the symptoms later return. She is now asking for help regarding her dilemma. So, in this episode, we will be sharing with you what the Urinary Tract System is, what Urinary Tract Infection is, Urinary Tract Infection in older people, and what you can do to prevent this issue! Let’s talk about:  00:35 - Introduction to today’s guest 00:54 – Introduction to the topic2: 00 – The difficulty of knowing the reason for re-occurring UTI in perimenopausal women2:30 – The Urinary Tract System3:05 – Why more women experience UTI compared to men3:25 – What distinguishes a Urinary Tract Infection 4:25 – The over-the-counter strips versus urine culture testing to distinguish UTI6:25 – Importance of getting clear with your symptoms to avoid getting misdiagnosed 8:07 – The difference between upper and lower urinary tract infection10:14 – The symptoms of UTI in the older population 11:41 – Our thoughts on treating patients with antibiotics13:00 – Differentiating back pains referred to the kidneys and regular back pains14:08 – When to advocate for yourself to look for other treatments and specialist14:40 – The typical treatment plan for patients with recurring UTI16:01 – The anatomy of the urethra and vaginal opening for the older population and understanding the connection between UTI and perimenopausal18:34 – The correct usage and dosage for vaginal estrogen to work 22:00 – The most typical times people experience decrease in estrogen 23:59 – Symptoms of menopause 25:37 – Understanding the pH level of your vagina27:06 – Preventative measures to avoid getting recurring UTI33:06 – Ruling out other conditions like interstitial cystitis 36:38 – ConclusionWant support for perimenopause that goes beyond hormones?Whether you (or your clients) are taking HRT but still having symptoms, not ready for it, or can’t tolerate it...there’s more we can do.I’ll be sharing practical tools from a movement and rehab perspective, focusing on the nervous system, fascia, lymph, viscera, and musculoskeletal system.If you want updates on workshops, resources, and strategies to support this phase of life more fully, would love you to join my email list.Subscribe to my email list hereI’ll see you in 2 weeks!PS:If you are interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out the form here.