Homeopathy

Few studies have examined the effectiveness of specific homeopathic remedies. Professional homeopaths, however, may recommend one or more of the following treatments for UTI based on their knowledge and clinical experience. Before prescribing a remedy, homeopaths take into account a person's constitutional type -- your physical, emotional, and intellectual makeup. An experienced homeopath assesses all of these factors when determining the most appropriate remedy for a particular individual.

• Apis mellifica -- for stinging or burning pains that tend to worsen at night and from warmth. This remedy is appropriate for people who feel an intense urge to urinate, yet can only do so in drops.

• Aconitum -- for early symptoms of UTI, particularly with extremely painful urination that is often described as a hot sensation.

• Berberis -- for UTIs with burning or shooting pain during urination that may radiate to the pelvis or back. When not urinating, an aching sensation is present in the bladder that worsens with movement. Pain may also extend to legs and abdomen.

• Cantharis -- this is the most common and considered the most effective homeopathic remedy for UTI. This remedy is most appropriate for people who are restless, experience a burning sensation and decreased urine flow (despite a strong desire to urinate), and have increased sexual desire despite symptoms.

• Mercurius -- for burning urination and a strong urge to urinate. Symptoms worsen at night and tend to be accompanied by chills and sweating. Urine is dark and only small amounts pass. Burning sensation is often worse when the individual is not urinating.

• Nux vomica -- for people who have a constant urge to urinate. Pain is described as needle like. The urge to have a bowel movement may accompany urinary urgency. Some people experience mild, temporary relief from urination and warm baths. Symptoms may begin following ingestion of alcohol, coffee, drugs, or overeating.

• Pulsatilla -- for bladder inflammation that begins after an individual develops a sudden chill in hot weather. This remedy is most appropriate for people with an urgent desire to urinate who may be emotional, crave attention, and dribble urine after laughing, coughing, sneezing, or being surprised.

• Sarsaparilla -- for women who experience severe pain at the end of urination and who, occasionally, feel compelled to stand to urinate.

• Staphysagria -- for UTIs usually associated with sexual intercourse or following extreme embarrassment or humiliation, particularly from sexual abuse. This remedy is most appropriate for those who have an urgent desire to urinate and have the sensation that a single drop of urine is still present even following urination.

Following Up:

Preventive measures you can follow:

• Urinate both before and after intercourse.

• Have your health care provider recheck the fit of your diaphragm if you use one.

• Avoid sex while you are being treated for a UTI.

Special Considerations:

If you are pregnant, you are at higher risk of developing a UTI.