What prophylactic measure may help women with recurrent UTI after intercourse?

In cases of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) after sexual intercourse, one effective prophylactic measure is the single-dose oral nitrofurantoin taken after intercourse. This approach targets the specific timing of UTIs associated with sexual activity. When women experience recurrent UTIs that are linked to sexual intercourse, administering nitrofurantoin right after the act can reduce the likelihood of infection by preventing bacteria from proliferating in the urinary tract.

Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic that is effective against the common bacteria that cause UTIs, making it a suitable choice for prophylaxis. Administering it as a single dose after intercourse is both practical and efficient for women who are prone to these infections, as it targets the immediate risk period.

Other prophylactic options, like the regular use of barrier contraceptives or a six-month regimen of oral doxycycline, may not be as effective in this specific context because they do not directly address the post-intercourse bacterial exposure. Barrier methods help prevent the introduction of bacteria during sexual activity but do not eliminate the risk completely. Similarly, while a longer course of antibiotics might be helpful for some individuals, it may not be necessary if the primary trigger is intimacy, and it also increases the risk of antibiotic resistance