A typical uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI) usually lasts about 3 to 7 days with antibiotic treatment, with symptoms often starting to improve within 1 to 2 days after starting antibiotics. Without treatment, a UTI can last anywhere from about 3 to 7 days on its own but may sometimes persist longer and risk complications. In mild untreated cases, symptoms may last about a week or two depending on the immune system, but untreated infections can worsen and last weeks if they spread to the kidneys or become complicated. For men and cases involving complicated UTIs, the duration can be longer, often requiring 7 to 14 days of antibiotics or more. Chronic or recurrent infections might also require longer treatment or ongoing management to clear up fully.
Summary of UTI Duration
- With antibiotics (uncomplicated): symptoms start improving in 1-2 days, usually 3-7 days total treatment.
- Without antibiotics: can clear in 3-7 days or last up to weeks; risk of worsening.
- Men/complicated UTIs: 7-14 days or longer treatment needed.
- Chronic/recurrent UTIs: may require weeks of treatment or ongoing management.
It is important to complete the full course of prescribed antibiotics to prevent recurrence or resistant infections, and to seek medical evaluation if symptoms persist or worsen.
