Abstract
Background Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are frequent in women. Cystitis after intercourse
(post-coital cystitis) accounts for 60% of recurrent cases. Most physicians treat
recurrent UTIs (R-UTIs) with multiple courses of antibiotics. The high prevalence
indicates that this bacteria-oriented approach in the long term is ineffective for
many women. A change in clinical behavior regarding use of antibiotics and recognizing
the importance of a patient’s self-defense mechanisms are important considerations
in combating antimicrobial resistance.
Methods The intervention for each of two women with R-UTI was integrated treatment with a
non-conventional and tailor-made homeopathy regimen, addressing multiple levels of
disease simultaneously, for the prevention of recurrence as well as for treatment.
Assessment of causal attribution of homeopathy treatment effect was carried out using
the Modified Naranjo Criteria.
Results Case 1 presented with chronic multi-morbid conditions, including R-UTI which had
become multi-drug resistant. With regular homeopathic treatment, her antibiotic use
reduced, her diabetic profile improved, and she did not need prophylactic antibiotics.
Case 2 suffered from R-UTI with post-coital cystitis and burning sensation, despite
following all conventional advice for treatment and prophylaxis. Addition of homeopathy
improved her quality of life and prevented relapses. The Modified Naranjo Criteria
total score for each patient was +10/13 and +9/13, respectively.
Conclusions Addition of homeopathy can be an effective approach in integrated management of antibiotic-resistant
R-UTIs. Controlled research on the topic is thus indicated.
Keywords
homeopathy regimen - antibiotic resistance - drug-resistant UTI - post-coital cystitis
- homeopathic prophylaxis
