Professor Chris Harding is a Consultant Urologist working at the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle upon Tyne and at Newcastle University. He has a particular interest in bladder dysfunction, continence and urinary tract infections (UTIs). In recent years, his research has focused on non-antibiotic treatments for recurrent UTIs and developing targeted treatments for specific patient groups.

In this episode, Professor Chris talks to Dr Louise about the challenges of diagnosing UTIs accurately, the severe impact recurrent UTIs can have on your life, how antibiotics can be used appropriately, and how to prevent UTIs occurring. The experts share some of their plans to study the effects of systemic HRT and vaginal hormone treatments on UTIs in women.

Chris’s advice if you have recurrent UTIs:

You don’t need to put up with UTIs in the perimenopause and menopause; there are many proven treatments available

Acknowledge that current tests for UTIs are not 100% accurate. If you think you have a UTI, you probably have, even if your test was negative - the diagnosis can always be questioned

Discuss with your doctor how you can prevent infections if you have had 2 episodes within 6 months, or 3 within a year

Hormone replacement, particularly vaginal treatments, are significantly protective and preventative against UTIs.

Follow Prof Chris Harding on social media at @chrisharding123