Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections

This project proposes a rigorous investigation into the psychological impact of positive urine culture results and recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women, with a particular focus on Interstitial Cystitis and Bladder Pain Syndrome patients. Interstitial cystitis (IC) or bladder pain syndrome (BPS) is a poorly understood chronic disorder that has an immense impact on quality of life. Stress has been demonstrated to exacerbate bladder symptoms in IC/BPS patients. Because it is often difficult to differentiate IC/BPS symptoms from UTIs, laboratory tests such as urine cultures are often obtained to rule out infectious etiology. Positive lab results can disrupt emotion regulation and impact a variety of health-related coping and outcomes. Chen et al demonstrated in a cohort of 57 IC/BPS patients that the pain index was associated with anxiety mood status and a tendency to develop a sense of hopelessness and helplessness. The impact of positive laboratory results has not been investigated in recurrent UTI patients. Identifying triggers for worsening urinary symptoms is important in the overall management of bladder symptoms therefore it is important to evaluate the impact positive lab results on psychosocial stress level in this population in order provide better patient counseling. By employing validated questionnaires and comprehensive assessments, the study aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for patient counseling and management strategies tailored to address emotional distress and symptom severity. The findings will contribute to improving the overall well-being and quality of life for women affected by recurrent UTIs and associated conditions.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 12-month study to determine the effectiveness of D-mannose (2g daily) supplementation in rUTI (recurrent urinary tract infection) prevention in post-menopausal women.

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common bacterial infections worldwide. It affects 150 million people annually. Treatment of patients with UTI entails a high consumption of antibiotics and large social and health costs. With this protocol, we want to elucidate alternative treatment methods for especially recurrent urinary tract infection. Bacteria have internal competitiveness (bacterial interference) and it is known that the non-pathogenic E.coli can outcompete the pathogenic E.coli in laboratory studies. We intend to strengthen the clinical evidence that it can be used as patient treatment through a clinical, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial at Odense University Hospital.

This study aims to evaluate a catheter-free method for delivering medications directly into the bladder, known as intravesical instillation, which is commonly used to treat conditions such as interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS), recurrent urinary tract infections, bladder cancer, and post-chemotherapy or post-radiation cystitis. The study investigates whether this method, which eliminates the need for catheterization, reduces discomfort and complications while maintaining treatment effectiveness. By collecting data on patient experiences and outcomes, the study seeks to determine if this approach provides a safer and more comfortable alternative to traditional catheter-based treatments.