Cystitis and Seasonal Changes: What We Need to Know...

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 19:34:46 GMT

As we welcome the summer months, sadly this seasonal shift can carry hidden health risks and increase the risk of cystitis. Here’s why...

Why the warmer months can affect bladder health

Research ¹ shows us that there is a clear seasonal pattern when it comes to urinary tract infection (UTIs) prevalence, with hospital admissions peaking between May and October. But why do the summer months spell an increased risk of cystitis?

Summertime conditions create the perfect environment for an increased cystitis risk. As the sun comes out, temperatures and humidity increase and this, combined with more outdoor activity, can trigger bladder sensitivity and

increase the risk of uncomfortable cystitis flare-ups.

Why the summer months can trigger cystitis

Temperature Fluctuations

It may be cold and damp one day, warm and sunny the next, and these shifts can impact hydration levels, immune function and bacterial growth, all of which play a role in cystitis risk.

Dehydration

We are more active in sunnier months. GP, Dr Janine David notes: “Dehydration means urine can become more concentrated, we pee less often, and these combined can mean the bladder gets irritated and the natural flushing of bacteria isn’t working as well.” ²

Sweat

Warmer months mean more sweat - and this includes in the groin area. Dr Janine David explains: “Warm, moist environments encourage bacterial growth, and for individuals prone to cystitis, even small environmental changes can upset the delicate balance of bacteria around the urinary tract.”

Cystitis is mostly caused by bacteria from the rectum. Movements during sex move these bacteria up the urethra into the bladder. Springtime also means we are more social, take holidays and are more intimate. Estimates show that sex-induced cystitis accounts for around 60% for recurrent cases. ³

Intimacy

Exercise

Lighter days mean people want to be outside more and exercise. ⁴ Activities like swimming, walking, hiking, running, and gym sessions can contribute to cystitis risk due to tight clothing, which traps moisture, or damp swimwear that isn’t changed immediately.

Self-care Tips to Tackle Summertime Cystitis

Stay Hydrated

As we go into spring, we may forget that we need to up our fluid intake as temperatures increase. Dr Janine David explains: “Staying hydrated is key, as dehydration can unbalance the pH of urine, leading to cystitis. ⁵ The recommendation is that we should be aiming to drink 6 to 8 cups or glasses of fluid a day. ⁶ Being hydrated will generally make you pee more often, flushing the bacteria out.”

Opt for cotton underwear as it is soft and allows the vagina to breathe. It’s best to stay clear of tight-fitting jeans or trousers, and if you’re wearing tight clothes at the gym, don’t delay in changing after exercise to reduce the chance of bacteria.

Wear Breathable Clothing

Summertime allergens may contribute to inflammatio n ⁷ and immune stress, ⁸ which can all be triggers when it comes to cystitis. Managing seasonal conditions such as hay fever symptoms effectively can help support overall resilience. ⁹

Watch Out for Summer Allergens

Maintain healthy gut microbes to support your immune function and risk of infection. ¹⁰ Dr Janine David notes: “A balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables and fibre supports healthy gut bacteria and immune function. Fermented foods such as live yoghurt or kefir, alongside probiotic supplements, may help maintain microbial balance.”

Eat Gut-support Foods

Cystitis symptoms like burning and irritation can come on quickly, and they’re hard to ignore.

Effercitrate Tablets¹¹ provide a practical, soothing solution for cystitis symptoms. Available without prescription or urine testing, the lemon and lime-flavoured effervescent tablets contain potassium citrate and citric acid, which helps make urine more alkaline. This can ease irritation in the bladder and urethra, providing relief from burning discomfort.

How to use:

1. Dissolve two tablets in a glass of water

2. Drink the solution to help soothe irritation

Always read the label.

References
[1] www.careengland.org.uk/care-england-briefing-to-members-on-the-ukhsa-report-understanding-the-burden-of-uti-hospitalisations-in-england

[2] www.advancedurologyinstitute.com/how-staying-hydrated-can-help-prevent-these-4-urology-conditions-blog

[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16433159/

[4] www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/sad-tips-spring-productive-weather-b2712169.html
[5] www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6629391/

[6] www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-guidelines-and-food-labels/water-drinks-nutrition/#:~:text=The%20Eatwell%20Guide%20recommends%20that,glasses%20of%20fluid%20a%20day.

[7] www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK27112

[8] www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hay-fever/symptoms-causes/syc-20373039

[9] www.britishallergyclinic.com/post/the-hidden-dangers-of-untreated-hay-fever-unmasking-long-term-effects