How to get rid of Cystitis

Cystitis is a common and uncomfortable infection that affects the urinary tract and bladder. Most women will get it at least once in their lifetime.

It's usually caused by the bacteria E. coli entering the urethra, which causes inflammation of the bladder. Symptoms of cystitis include a constant need to urinate, a stinging sensation while urinating, cloudy or smelly urine, and pain in the lower abdomen.

While it usually goes away on its own after a few days, there are a number of things you can do to try to help speed up the healing process and get things back to normal.

Preventing Cystitis

Firstly, it's worth understanding how cystitis is caused to understand how to avoid it. It's far easier to prevent cystitis than to treat it.

Read more: How to Prevent Cystitis.

If you have unfortunately contracted cystitis, you can try the following.

Flush Out the Infection

As cystitis is most commonly caused by bacteria inside the urethra, removing or “flushing out” the bacteria to rid yourself of the infection is the first step.

This includes drinking plenty of water throughout the day, as well as emptying the bladder fully. Avoid waiting to urinate, as this can allow the bacteria to multiply and prolong the infection.

Medication

Take paracetamol or ibuprofen to lessen the pain caused by the inflammation of the bladder.

If you are experiencing worsening symptoms that are concerning you, such as blood in your urine or a high fever, or your condition hasn't improved after a few days, it's essential to visit your GP, as you may require an antibiotic, such as Trimethoprim.

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Practise Good Hygiene

Always wipe from front to back after using the toilet to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria from the anus into your urethra.

Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly with antibacterial soap.

When showering, avoid using perfumed products, such as shower gels, which can irritate your skin.

Wear loose-fitting clothing, especially at night, to allow your intimate areas to breathe and prevent moisture from being trapped.

Lifestyle Changes

There are a few lifestyle alterations that should assist with clearing the infection faster:

• Avoid drinking caffeine as it could irritate the bladder further.
• Avoid sexual intercourse, as sex can cause cystitis by spreading bacteria to the urethra.
• Ensure you rest to help your body recover.
• Maintain a healthy immune system by eating a balanced diet to help your body fight off infections.

Read more: How to ease Cystitis at night?

Finding Relief

While you're recovering, you'll need to find ways to manage cystitis pain.

A hot water bottle on the abdomen should provide some relief. Taking a hot shower can also be comforting, although it's best to avoid using products like soap on your intimate areas.

A short walk may help ease the pain, though try to avoid anything too strenuous while you're healing.

Authored & Reviewed By

Mohamed Imran Lakhi

MPharm - Lead Pharmacist

Imran Lakhi is the superintendent pharmacist and founder at Prescription Doctor. He has been at the core of our team.

Published on: 20/09/2019 Reviewed on: 05/06/2025