Cystitis

• Overview
   
• Causes
   
• Symptoms
   
• Treatment
   
• Prevention
   

Prevention

Drinking plenty of water-based fluids is often advised to help prevent cystitis. Drinking cranberry juice is also thought to be a good preventative measure, as cranberries contain proanthocyanidins (PACs) that can prevent the adhesion of certain bacteria associated with urinary tract infections to the urinary tract wall^10,11,12. However there is no definite evidence that this is the case⁵.

Good personal hygiene is particularly important in order to help prevent bacteria travelling from the anus to the urethra:

• After a bowel movement or passing urine, always remember to wipe from front to back, to avoid transmitting bacteria from the anus to vulva
• However, go gently as too much cleansing or scrubbing may damage the genital skin, allowing bacteria to thrive⁶
• Before and after having sex, make sure you are clean but avoid using perfumed toiletries around your genital area³
• Emptying your bladder as soon as possible after having sex may also help to flush out any bacteria which may have entered the urethra
• When you need to go to the toilet, don't delay going. Empty your bladder fully every time.

If you have recurrent cystitis, it's also worth switching your underwear to cotton (which allows the skin to breathe) and also avoiding tight jeans and trousers, which can create warm, moist, airless conditions in which some bacteria thrive⁶.