Recurrent urinary tract infections among women of reproductive age (15–49 years) at Bombo health centre III, Luweero district. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/5bp19y02Keywords:
Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections, Escherichia coli, Bombo Health Centre IIIAbstract
Background:
Globally, recurrent urinary tract infections account for a significant proportion of female morbidity, affecting many women at least in their lifetime. The increasing resistance of E.coli to first-line antibiotics has made management more challenging. The study aimed to determine the factors associated with recurrent urinary tract infections among women of reproductive age (15-49 years) at Bombo Health Centre III, Luwero district.
Methodology:
The study adopted a cross-sectional study design in which a quantitative data collection approach was applied. Respondents were sampled using a simple random sampling method. Questionnaires were used to collect data from 50 respondents. Data was manually analysed, and results were presented in the form of tables, charts, and graphs.
Results:
Most respondents (86%) were aged 18-30 years, 64% were single, and 52% had attained secondary education. Half (50%) earned between 100,000-200,000shs monthly. Socio-demographic, behavioral, and health-related factors-such as low income, poor genital hygiene, delayed urination, and limited fluid intake-were identified as major contributions to recurrence. While 60.0% of women reported receiving counseling on UTI prevention, 60.0% reported at least one UTI in the past year, highlighting a substantial burden of recurrence. Inadequate awareness and self-medication further increased susceptibility. Therefore, recurrent urinary tract infections remain a common problem among women of reproductive age in Bombo Health Centre III.
Conclusion:
Young, educated women face a high UTI recurrence rate driven by behavioral risks, such as self-medication, and structural resource constraints. Addressing this requires integrated interventions focusing on hygiene, education, and antibiotic stewardship.
Recommendations:
Health education on hygiene, increased awareness about risk behaviors, and timely medical consultation should be prioritized to reduce recurrent urinary tract infections. Outreach services should be emphasized, targeting women living farther from the facility to bridge access gaps and improve care-seeking behavior.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Silas Kiggundu, Alois Okadapao, Hasifah Nansereko, Franscisco Ssemuwemba, Jane Frank Nalubega, Immaculate Prosperia Naggulu (Author)
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