What is recurrent urinary tract infection defined as?

Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) are typically defined by specific criteria that indicate the frequency of infections. Recognizing that the concept revolves around the number of infections occurring within a set time frame, the definition includes both two or more infections within six months and three or more infections within a year.

The rationale for defining recurrent UTIs in this way is grounded in clinical observations that help practitioners recognize patterns of infection, anticipate treatment needs, and assess underlying issues such as anatomical or physiological abnormalities. Understanding these criteria is crucial for both diagnosis and management.

The first option, defining recurrent UTIs as one infection per year, does not reflect the common clinical definitions that guide treatment and follow-up, since this does not indicate a pattern suggesting recurrent issues. Therefore, the definitions provided in both the second and third options are accepted in the clinical context, making the combination of both definitions the correct comprehensive answer.