Intravaginal Delivery of Herbal Pharmaceutical Interventions for Uncomplicated UTIs in Women

Abstract

Background: Urinary tract infection (UTIs) is the most common infection in women affecting approximately 75% of women worldwide during their pregnancy, and in pre and postmenopausal women. Typical symptoms include urinary frequency, urgency, suprapubic discomfort, and dysuria. Method: An introduction to the epidemiology of UTIs and detailed herbal nanoformulation treatment approach through novel intravaginal route is intended through this narrative review. UTIs are associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and they affect the quality of life of the affected patients. Multidrug-resistant bacteria and recurrent UTIs are becoming more common. Development of resistance, adverse effects of antibiotics, and other associated problems lead to establishing the research framework to find out the alternative approaches in controlling UTIs. Antibiotic- free treatments for uncomplicated urinary tract infections UTIs should be used, saving drugs for severe infections. Herbal medication might be used instead of antibiotics for uncomplicated UTIs, in addition to analgesics for purely symptomatic treatment. Conclusion: This review identifies the pathophysiology of UTI, distinguish the intravaginal route as an alternative to oral delivery route, summarizes the management of urinary tract infections and highlights the anti-uropathogenic and anti-bactericidal effects of herbal approaches to prevent or treat urinary tract infections.