Check out these previous threads about VCUG.
http://www.mothering.com/discussions...&highlight=uti
http://www.mothering.com/discussions...&highlight=uti
http://www.mothering.com/discussions...&highlight=uti
http://www.mothering.com/discussions...i#post12414052
Personally, unless I would *do* something differently due to the potential results of a diagnostic test, I wouldn't put myself or child through it. An ultrasound could indicate some antatomical concerns. But, with one UTI, I wouldn't start with a VCUG. I would rather do a monthly Urine for culture and sensitivity, to assure no UTI. And probiotics prophylactically.
"probiotics prophylaxis was as effective as antibiotic prophylaxis in children with persistent primary VUR. " http://www.springerlink.com/content/1741p5k22284x265/
I am concerned that a breastfed baby has had so many infections, so young. The issue is that multiple infections could be a symptom that your baby's immune system is impaired.
Why? Unfortunately, steroids and antibiotics further suppress the immune system. I'd be concerned about gut healing for both of you as many immune system issues are due to dietary allergies and undigested proteins from mama's milk. There are many alternatives to improve the immune function. I imagine there is some underlying allergy issue, either environmental or dietary.
Most commonly, dairy is associated with ear infections and excess mucus production. Does baby have any eczema, green mucusy stools, red ring around anus, rash, reflux, restless sleep "normally"?
I always prefer whole food probiotics. Not sure which probiotics you all are using, if any. But, none of the bottled probiotics have the same ability to withstand the stomach acid and remain viable into the large intestine as non-dairy kefir, fermented vegetables. Those are quite easy, if you need more info.
Probiotics can prevent UTIs. So can homeopathy.
Specific research studies are linked in the threads.
Probiotics.
http://www.springerlink.com/content/1741p5k22284x265/
Homeopathics:
http://www.truestarhealth.com/Notes/2262002.html
I would eliminate dairy from your diet. Dairy is the most common source of dietary allergen and mucus production. Here is a list of hidden diary:
http://www.kellymom.com/store/handou...dden-dairy.pdf
I recommend vitamins and minerals come from whole foods. But, have you been following the digestion, absorption, detox pathways discussions to gut healing and allergy resolution? Basically, if we
digest the proteins, they don't leak and thus we have fewer toxins to detox. Proper stomach acid (HCl) and specific nutrients are required for detox. You can read more about all of this here:
http://www.mothering.com/discussions...e#post13406780
This is a copy of a recent post of mine regarding ear infections and the association with dairy intolerance.
http://www.mothering.com/discussions...n#post13412976 "In one study an astonishing 86% of the children tested became free of ear problems once they came off dairy food."
http://www.safekids.co.uk/EarProblemsAndAllergies.html
http://www.healthychild.com/ear-infe...ternatives.htm
http://www.vitacost.com/science/conc...infection.html
http://www.femail.com.au/ear-infections-truestar.htm
HTH, Pat