There are steps you can take which may prevent attacks of bacterial cystitis/UTIs.
- Increase your fluid intake with water or diluted squash.
- Avoid alcohol, pure fruit juices, tea or coffee as they can irritate the bladder.
- Cranberry juice may help as it can prevent some bacteria from ahering to the lining of the bladder.
- Wear clothes made of natural materials such as cotton or linen. Do not wear thongs.
- Always wipe from front to back when using the toilet.
- Wash the anal area after a bowel movement.
- Empty your bladder as soon as you feel the need.
- Examine your diet - decrease your intake of junk foods and increase your intake of vegetables.
- For women who have been through the menopause, oestrogen replacement treatment in the form of pessaries or topical cream may prove useful.
- The use of spermicidal products can destroy lactobacilli (good bacteria). If necessary, revise your method of contraception.
- Wash the genital area prior to sex and urinate within 15 minutes afterwards to help flush away any bacteria.
Prevention of Recurrent Cystitis/UTIs
Individuals who get cystitis recurrently may be prescribed a course of antibiotics to keep at home which they can take at the onset of an attack. Sometimes a low dose of antibiotics is prescribed for three to six months to reduce the risk of infection. If you get cystitis after sexual intercourse you may be advised to take a single dose of antibiotics immediately afterwards to prevent an attack.
It is important to have a urine sample sent off to the laboratory to confirm whether an infection is present and to discover which antibiotic is required.
Recurring infections should be investigated and a referral to a urologist may be recommended.