
Cystitis videos
Peer reviewed by Dr Colin Tidy, MRCGPAuthored by Victoria RawOriginally published 26 Jun 2025
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
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Our cystitis video hub covers everything from what cystitis is and its common causes to effective treatments and prevention tips. If you’re dealing with the discomfort of cystitis or want to understand how to prevent it, our expert-led videos are here to help.
In this article:
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Overview
Cystitis is a common urinary tract infection (UTI) that causes inflammation of the bladder. It’s more common in women and, whilst it’s usually not serious, it can be really uncomfortable
What is cystitis?
How often is recurrent cystitis?
Causes
Cystitis is usually caused by bacteria getting into the urethra and travelling up into the bladder, where they trigger inflammation. This can happen after sex, if you don’t empty your bladder fully, or even just from things like wiping from back to front.
What causes cystitis?
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Symptoms
Cystitis can leave you feeling like you need to pee all the time, often with a burning sensation, and your urine might look cloudy or smell different.
What are the symptoms of cystitis?
Treatment and Prevention
Cystitis often clears up with a short course of antibiotics. You can help prevent cystitis by drinking plenty of water, wiping front to back, peeing after sex, and wearing breathable cotton underwear.
How do you avoid cystitis?
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FAQ's
Can cystitis become a kidney infection?
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Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
Next review due: 26 Jun 2028
26 Jun 2025 | Originally published
Authored by:
Victoria RawPeer reviewed by
Dr Colin Tidy, MRCGP

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