Recurrent Cystitis: 8 Everyday Habits to Limit Recurrences
Drinking, not holding it in, after sex, gentle hygiene, underwear, digestion, cranberry: 8 simple habits to limit cystitis, and the signs that mean you should see a doctor the same day.
Burning when you pass urine, frequent and urgent need to go, discomfort in the lower belly: cystitis is a very common urinary infection in women. It is called recurrent from 4 infections in 12 months. Cystitis is treated with your doctor, but simple everyday habits help limit recurrences. Here are the ones recommended by the French national health insurance (Assurance Maladie).
1. Drink enough
Drink at least 1.5 litres a day of water and non-alcoholic drinks, spread over the day. Always keep a bottle within reach, at work and when travelling.
2. Don't hold it in
Go to the toilet as soon as you feel the need, and take the time to empty your bladder completely.
3. Pass urine after sex
Pass urine straight after sex, and avoid spermicides.
4. Wipe from front to back
In the toilet, always wipe from front to back, so as not to bring bacteria from the anal area forward.
5. Keep intimate hygiene gentle
No vaginal douches, no scented intimate hygiene products, no bubble baths. A simple wash is enough.
6. Wear cotton
Choose cotton underwear and avoid trousers that are too tight.
7. Look after your digestion
Constipation encourages cystitis. Fibre, water and regular physical activity help keep things regular.
8. Ask your doctor about cranberry
If you have recurrent cystitis, your doctor may suggest cranberry as prevention, at a specific dose. Ask their advice rather than picking a supplement at random.
When to see a doctor
At the first symptoms, drink plenty, pass urine often and book an appointment with your doctor, unless they have already given you a plan for your recurrences.
See a doctor the same day if you have fever or chills, pain in your back or side (this can mean a kidney infection), if you are pregnant, if you are a man, if you are over 75, if you have a chronic illness such as diabetes or kidney disease, or if symptoms get worse after starting treatment.
Moments of relaxation, designed for people prone to cystitis
I designed the Urinary comfort listening programme for people prone to cystitis and urinary discomfort who want moments of relaxation alongside their medical care: 36 minutes lying down, warm, a hot-water bottle on your lower belly if you like, headphones on, one session every 2 days over 10 days. My advice: plan your 36 minutes in the evening in bed, before sleep. It does not treat cystitis and never replaces the treatment prescribed by your doctor. To discover the method, the first session of the Anti-Stress programme is free.
Éric Rosati, osteopath with 30 years of experience. This article is for information and does not replace your doctor's advice.
Sources (in French): Assurance Maladie, Preventing urinary infection and recurrent cystitis · Assurance Maladie, Cystitis: what to do and when to see a doctor
🎧 Recommended programme: Urinary comfort · cystitis
To listen to with headphones, in a quiet place, at your own pace.