Cystitis Treatments

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is the general term for an infection anywhere in the urinary system, including the bladder, urethra or kidneys. Cystitis is the most common type of UTI, and refers specifically to inflammation of the bladder. In everyday use, the two terms are often used interchangeably, since bladder infections make up the vast majority of UTIs in women.

You can get cystitis when harmless bacteria that normally live in the bowel or skin finds a way into the urine through the urethra (tube from where the urine is excreted). This can happen due to:

• having sex
• inserting a tampon
• wiping your bottom back to front
• inserting a catheter
• using a diaphragm for contraception

Cystitis is more common in women as their urethra is shorter and closer to their anus, so it easier for the bacteria to get into the bladder.

The most common symptoms of a UTI include a burning or stinging sensation when urinating, needing to urinate more frequently or urgently than usual, cloudy, dark or strong-smelling urine, and pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen. Some people also feel generally unwell or tired. Symptoms usually develop quickly, often within a day or two.

Mild cystitis can often be eased at home. Drinking plenty of water helps flush bacteria from the bladder, and avoiding holding in urine for long periods can reduce irritation. A treatment such as CanesOasis works by making urine less acidic, which can relieve stinging and discomfort within a couple of days. Over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol can also help with any lower abdominal pain. If symptoms have not improved within 2 days, or they are severe, it is best to speak to a GP or pharmacist, as an antibiotic may be needed to clear the infection.

Mild cystitis can sometimes resolve on its own within a few days, particularly with good hydration, as the immune system clears the infection. However, without any treatment, symptoms can persist for a week or longer, and there is a risk the infection could spread to the kidneys. If symptoms have not started to ease within 2 days of self-care, or they are getting worse rather than better, it is advisable to seek advice from a pharmacist or GP rather than waiting it out.

Most UTIs are mild and clear up with self-care or a short course of antibiotics. However, you should seek medical advice urgently, or call 111, if you notice blood in your urine, pain in your back or side (which can be a sign the infection has spread to a kidney), a high temperature, chills or shivering, or symptoms that have not improved within 2 days of starting treatment. In older adults, sudden confusion or drowsiness can sometimes be the only noticeable sign of a UTI, so this should also be taken seriously.

UTIs are more common during pregnancy, and should always be assessed and treated rather than left, since an untreated infection carries a higher risk of complications such as a kidney infection or early labour. CanesOasis is not suitable for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so if you are pregnant and think you have cystitis, contact your midwife, GP or pharmacist promptly to discuss safe and suitable treatment options.

Sexual activity can increase the risk of cystitis, as it can help transfer bacteria into the urethra, which is why the condition is sometimes nicknamed "honeymoon cystitis." Urinating shortly after sex can help flush out any bacteria before an infection has a chance to develop. It is generally sensible to avoid sex until a UTI has cleared, as it can aggravate symptoms and cause further discomfort.

Yes, although UTIs are far less common in men than in women, because the male urethra is longer, giving bacteria a longer distance to travel to reach the bladder. UTIs in women are also more common due to the urethra being shorter and positioned closer to the anus. When a man does develop a UTI, it can sometimes point to an underlying issue, such as an enlarged prostate or a kidney stone, so it is best to see a GP for further investigation rather than self-treating.

No, cystitis and other UTIs are not classed as sexually transmitted infections, and cannot be passed to a partner through sexual contact or picked up from a toilet seat. UTIs develop when bacteria that normally live harmlessly in your own bowel or on your skin enter the urinary tract, rather than being spread from another person. That said, some STIs can cause similar symptoms to a UTI, so it is worth ruling these out with a pharmacist or GP if symptoms persist or you have other risk factors.

Yes, it is possible to have thrush and a UTI at the same time, as they are both common, separate infections. Thrush typically causes itching, soreness and a thick, white discharge, and is treated with an antifungal such as those found on our thrush treatment page. Cystitis mainly causes pain or burning when urinating and a frequent urge to go, without the discharge associated with thrush. If you are unsure which condition you have, or you are experiencing symptoms of both, a pharmacist can help identify the right treatment.