You can treat the symptoms of cystitis at home using over the counter medications such as Effercitrate Tablets which help relieve the discomfort. See a GP if you have symptoms of cystitis and you are a child, pregnant or you are a man. Cystitis often clears up by itself, however if you have symptoms that don’t improve within 3 days you should speak with a healthcare professional. ¹

Other ways you can help relieve symptoms include ¹ :

• Take an over-the counter painkiller to help relieve pain

• Drink plenty of water

• Hold a hot water bottle over your lower tummy

• Avoid having sex

• Avoid drinks which may irritate your bladder like fruit juice, coffee and alcohol

• Pee frequently

If your symptoms do not improve after 3 days you should make an appointment with your healthcare professional as you may require treatment with antibiotics1. The Pharmacy First scheme now allows patients between the ages of 16-64 years to obtain a consultation for urinary tract infections and prescription at a local Pharmacy without the need to wait for a GP appointment. ²

What can I do to help prevent cystitis? ¹

• wipe from front to back when you go to the toilet

• pee as soon as possible after sex

• drink plenty of fluids, especially water – so that you pee regularly during the day and do not feel thirsty

• have a shower rather than a bath – this stops exposing your genitals to cleaning products for too long

• wash the skin outside the vagina (vulva) with water before and after sex

• change soiled nappies or incontinence pads promptly

• keep the genital area clean and dry

• avoid scented soap, bubble bath or talcum powder

• avoid using spermicide with diaphragm or condoms – try non-spermicidal lube or different type of contraception

• go for a pee when you need to, avoid holding it in and ensure you empty your bladder fully

• limit alcoholic drinks or coffee – they may irritate your bladder

• limit sugary foods or drinks – they may encourage bacteria to grow

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) represent a common problem during menopause. The decreasing oestrogen in perimenopause and menopause can lead to vaginal dryness and a weakened vaginal mucosa which is more prone to bacterial infections. ³

Sex can introduce bacteria from the anus into the urinary tract, which can result in a UTI.

Women who are sexually active can reduce their risk of developing a UTI by urinating before and after sex, staying hydrated, using a vaginal lubricant, and practicing genital hygiene. ⁴

Yes, most cases of cystitis clear up by themselves within a few days. However, if your symptoms persist up to 3 days you should speak with a healthcare professional as you may require antibiotics or have a kidney infection which requires attention. ¹

Yes, men can get cystitis. Cystitis is more common in women than men, however cystitis can still affect men, especially older men. All men with cystitis symptoms should see a GP or visit a sexual health clinic ⁵

Cystitis in men can be caused by bacteria entering the urethra, which might happen during sex. Other causes are ⁵ :

• not emptying your bladder properly

• damage or irritation to the urethra

These issues may be caused by diabetes or by a condition affecting the bladder, kidney or prostate. You might have an obstruction in your urinary tract, like an enlarged prostate. ⁵

Whilst it is true that cystitis is a urinary tract infection (UTI), it’s important to note that there is a difference between cystitis and UTIs. Cystitis can stem from non-infectious causes, for example from perfumed soap or wearing jeans which are too tight. However, a urinary tract infection, by definition, must involve an infection. Additionally, cystitis is located only in the bladder, however a UTI presents itself in any part of the urinary system. ⁶

Cystitis may be treated with antibiotics if it is thought the infection is bacterial. However, in most cases cystitis can clear by itself in a few days and may not require treatment with antibiotics. It’s important to seek medical advice if your symptoms do not improve within 3 days. ¹

You should consult your doctor before taking Effercitrate if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are breast-feeding. ⁷

No, if you miss a dose do not take a double dose. If you forget to take Effercitrate Tablets. take a dose as instructed on the patient information leaflet inside your medication box when you remember, and then continue your normal course of treatment. ⁷  

No, it is advisable to stick with the recommended dosing schedule on your patient information leaflet which comes with your medication. If you take more Effercitrate Tablets than you should, tell your doctor immediately, or go to the nearest hospital casualty department. Take the Effercitrate Tablets with you. ⁷

Some people find that drinking cranberry juice or using products that reduce the acidity of their pee (such as sodium bicarbonate or potassium citrate) reduces their symptoms. However, there’s no evidence that they help symptoms or treat cystitis. ¹