Ep 210: Pediatric UTIs: Myths, Treatment, and Prevention, Insights with Dr. Andrew Kirsch

Send us Fan Mail

Episode 210 of Your Child is Normal is a conversation discussing everything you've ever wondered about UTIs! 

It’s common for kids to occasionally feel discomfort when they pee — but how do you know when it’s something that needs more attention, like a urinary tract infection?

In this episode, pediatrician Dr. Jessica Hochman talks with pediatric urologist Dr. Andrew Kirsch, author of The Ultimate Bedwetting Survival Guide, about everything parents should know about UTIs in children — from the most common symptoms to when to see a doctor.

They discuss:

• How UTIs present differently in babies vs. older kids
• Why constipation is one of the biggest risk factors
• When testing and antibiotics are necessary
• What really works for prevention — hydration, bathroom habits, and (maybe!) cranberry extract
• Common myths, like whether bubble baths cause infections

If your child has ever had burning with urination, frequent accidents, or unexplained fevers, this episode will help you feel more confident about what to do next.

Dr. Kirsch  completed both a residency in general surgery and urology at the Columbia University and he completed his fellowship in pediatric urology at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.He has written extensively with an emphasis on vesicoureteral reflux diagnosis and management, publishing nearly 300 journal articles and book chapters. Currently, Dr. Kirsch is a professor and chief of pediatric urology at Emory University School of Medicine and a partner at Georgia Urology.   Dr. Kirsch has been named in Atlanta Magazine’s Best Doctors and The Best Doctors in America list, representing the top 5% of doctors in America.

Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nuanced conversations about raising healthy, resilient kids. Hosted by Dr. Jessica Hochman — a board-certified practicing pediatrician — the show combines evidence-based medicine, expert interviews, and real-world parenting advice to help listeners navigate everything from sleep struggles to mental health, nutrition, screen time, and more.

Follow Dr Jessica Hochman:
Instagram: @AskDrJessica and Tiktok @askdrjessica
YouTube: Ask Dr Jessica

Shop my favorite products for kids on Amazon here

If you are interested in placing an ad on Your Child Is Normal click here or fill out our interest form.

To test your child's microbiome and get recommendations, check out:
Tiny Health using code: DRJESSICA 

The information presented in Ask Dr Jessica is for general educational purposes only.  She does not diagnose medical conditions or formulate treatment plans for specific individuals.  If you have a concern about your child's health, be sure to call your child's health care provider.