What are the criteria for referring a patient with recurrent urinary tract infections for further investigation of potential STIs?

Refer or seek specialist advice for patients with recurrent urinary tract infections when there is suspicion of an underlying cause that may include sexually transmitted infections (STIs), especially if the recurrent infections are unexplained or persistent ¹.

Specifically, consider further investigation and referral if the recurrent UTI is associated with symptoms suggestive of an STI, such as abnormal vaginal or penile discharge, or if there is a history of unprotected sexual activity or multiple partners ¹.

In cases where there is unexplained recurrent UTI in women aged 16 years and over, or in men with recurrent episodes, further investigation for underlying causes, including STIs, should be considered as part of specialist assessment ¹.