Cystitis FAQs

1. What is cystitis?
2. Do I have cystitis?
3. Do I need to visit a doctor if I think I have cystitis?
4. What causes cystitis?
5. Is it true that too much sex causes cystitis?
6. Will cystitis go away on its own?
7. What medications are there to treat cystitis?
8. Is it true that cranberry juice helps?
9. How can I make sure I don’t get cystitis?
10. Can men get cystitis?

1. What is cystitis?

Cystitis is a bladder infection that is very common amongst women, often occurring recurrently. It is particularly common amongst sexually active women and those who are pregnant or post-menopausal.

2. Do I have cystitis?

If you experience an increased urge to urinate but find that very little urine comes out when you go to the toilet, then it is likely that you are suffering from a bladder infection like cystitis. Cystitis is also characterised by painful urination and a heavy feeling in the lower pelvic area. The urine that you do produce may be cloudy or pink with blood, and you may also notice that it smells particularly bad. You may also experience pain during sex.

3. Do I need to visit a doctor if I think I have cystitis?

If you are experiencing symptoms for the first time, you may wish to see your GP for a diagnosis. However, this is not always necessary, especially in women who are generally in good health. If you have experienced cystitis before then you may feel that it is not necessary for you to visit your doctor again. It is important to note, however, that you should always visit your doctor if you are concerned about your health.

4. What causes cystitis?

Cystitis is a type of bladder infection which can be caused by a number of factors, such as inadequate toilet hygiene, pregnancy, increased sexual activity, contact dermatitis and sexually transmitted diseases.

5. Is it true that too much sex causes cystitis?

It is true that an increase in sexual activity can be a contributory cause of cystitis, but it is only one of many different factors which could influence the development of this infection.

6. Will cystitis go away on its own?

Usually cystitis will eventually clear on its own, but treatments can help to alleviate symptoms and shorten the length of the infection. However, in some cases severe cystitis can lead to a painful kidney infection so it is recommended that you get treatment as soon as possible.

7. What medications are available to treat cystitis?

The prescription medication Trimethoprim is clinically proven to reduce the symptoms of cystitis and treat the infection within 24 hours. Some women also find that over the counter painkillers such as ibuprofen are adequate treatments to reduce the painful symptoms.

8. Is it true that cranberry juice helps?

Many people recommend cranberry juice for a cystitis infection, but actually medical research has not been able to prove that it helps to treat an infection. However, it is believed that it significantly reduces the risk of developing the infection if you drink it (or take capsules) while you are not infected.

9. How can I make sure I don’t get cystitis?

Make sure you drink plenty of water every day to ensure that your system is properly flushed out. Cranberry juice is also believed to reduce the risk of infections recurring. After sex, it is recommended that you urinate as soon as possible to eliminate any bacteria. You should also try to avoid cleansing products that are perfumed as they can irritate the vulval area.

10. Can men get cystitis?

Yes, cystitis can also occur in men. It can be very painful and is often causes by an underlying infection such as prostatitis or a urinary tract obstruction such as an enlarged prostate or a tumour. Medical treatment should be sought if a man suspects he may have cystitis.