What to expect from an online UTI visit.
Many bladder infections can be treated without an office visit. Some symptoms need care in person, fast. Here's how an online visit works and when it isn't the right choice.
Common symptoms
A bladder infection, the most common kind of urinary tract infection (UTI), often causes:
- Pain or burning when you urinate
- Needing to urinate often
- Feeling like you need to go, even when your bladder is empty
- Blood in your urine
- Pressure or cramping in your lower belly or groin
Get care in person right away if you have
- A fever or chills
- Pain in your lower back or the side of your back
- Nausea or vomiting
These can be signs that the infection has reached your kidneys.
How an online visit works
- You answer questions about your symptoms, your health history and any medicines you take.
- A licensed clinician reviews your answers. They may message you with questions or ask for a urine test at a nearby lab.
- If antibiotics are right for you, your clinician sends the prescription to your pharmacy.
- Take every dose as prescribed, even if you feel better. Don't save antibiotics for later or share them.
If you're pregnant, get seen in person. A UTI during pregnancy needs closer care.
When a test helps
A urine test, called a urinalysis, can usually confirm an infection. A urine culture can show which bacteria are causing it and which antibiotic will work best. Your clinician will tell you if you need either one.
If you don't get better
Contact your clinician if your symptoms don't improve, get worse, or come back soon after treatment.
Lowering your risk
- Urinate after sex
- Drink enough fluids to stay well hydrated
- Take showers instead of baths
- Limit douching, sprays and powders in the genital area
Sources
This guide is based on these public health sources: