[Oestrogen for prevention of recurrent urinary tract infections in postmenopausal women--a survey of a Cochrane review]

Abstract

Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in postmenopausal women. While the pathophysiology is often complex, it is evident that the urogenital atrophy due to the decrease of endogenous oestrogen production is a key factor. Two small randomized controlled studies have proven the efficacy of local (vaginal) oestrogen therapy in the prevention of recurrent UTIs. Conversely, four randomized trials, reviewed in a weighted meta-analysis with pooled data from 2,798 women, have shown the lack of efficacy of systemic oestrogen-progesterone therapy. Local oestrogen therapy is recommended, if the predominant indication is urogenital symptoms.