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Frequently Asked Questions
Cystitis causes discomfort for sufferers and can be difficult to live with, so Dr Catherine Hood, who works in general medicine and is an expert in sexual health and relationships, has answered some commonly asked questions about such issues as honeymoon cystitis, symptoms, cranberry juice and more.
“What can be done to prevent cystitis that has been treated with antibiotics, but comes back?”
Dr Hood says...
Having sex, the menopause and kidney problems can all contribute to recurrent cystitis, but for many women there is no apparent cause. Firstly I would suggest asking a GP for a urine sample test to see which bacterium is causing the cystitis. People can become resistant to one antibiotic and need a different one to help the problem.
If the cystitis is related to having sex, the person could try going to the toilet immediately after sex, using a lubricating jelly during sex and avoiding spermicides and/or the diaphragm for contraception. Ask a GP or practice nurse for advice about other forms of contraception.
“Is an aching, pulsating bladder a sign of cystitis?”
Dr Hood says...
Pain or discomfort in the lower abdominal region is a common symptom of cystitis, which can be helped by taking paracetamol or ibuprofen - a pharmacist will be able to recommend a suitable analgesic. If this does not help to ease the pain then sufferers should visit a GP.
“Does cystitis cause symptoms such as a burning sensation when passing water, abdominal pain and feeling feverish? Is it really caused by sex?”
Dr Hood says...
Cystitis can cause pain on passing urine, needing to go to the loo frequently and a fever. A GP, pharmacist or practice nurse will be able to confirm this is the correct diagnosis.
Some women find they are prone to cystitis within a day or so of having sex. This may be partly due to the movements during sex, which may push bacteria up into the bladder. A good way to help reduce the chances of this happening is to empty the bladder just before and just after sexual intercourse to flush out bacteria from the bladder.
“Can cystitis be passed on sexually?”
Dr Hood says...
Having sexual intercourse can cause cystitis in some women although it is not a sexually transmitted disease.
“Can cranberry juice really help prevent cystitis?”
Dr Hood says...
There is some evidence to suggest that drinking cranberry juice or taking cranberry tablets can help to prevent cystitis. However, there is little evidence to say that it helps with the symptoms.
Drinking plenty of water during an attack will help to flush out the bladder.
The above questions have been answered by Dr Catherine Hood and not Cymalon.
If cystitis causes you pain and discomfort you can learn more about cystitis relief options and how to prevent cystitis on our informational pages.