What is cystitis?
Cystitis is an inflammation of the lining of the bladder. It can be caused by bacteria infecting the bladder (severe cystitis) or by non-bacterial inflammation caused by irritation.
Any woman can suffer from cystitis but some are more prone to this condition, for example:
- Younger women (who may be prone to more sexual activity)
- The elderly (who may be less mobile or have more difficulty emptying their bladder)
- Pregnant women (whose body changes can make them prone to urinary infections)
- Post-menopausal women (who may experience vaginal dryness causing soreness and irritation during sexual intercourse).
Men and children can get cystitis too, but this is much less common, and in such cases a doctor's advice must always be sought.
Cystitis can be caused by an infection (sometimes referred to as bacterial cystitis) or by irritation (non-bacterial or mild cystitis).
A mild or non-bacterial cystitis attack
Mild cystitis occurs when there are no bacteria present but the bladder has suffered irritation. There are several factors which can trigger this form of cystitis such as using perfumed soaps and bubble bath, applying vaginal deodorants, or experiencing irritation caused during sexual intercourse. Drinks such as coffee, alcohol and acidic fruit juices can also cause the urine to be acidic resulting in irritation of the bladder.
An infection or bacterial cystitis attack
Many bacteria (germs) live harmlessly in the vaginal and anal areas. The female urethra (the tube from the bladder to the outside of the body) is shorter than the male and closer to the anus. This allows bacteria to travel easily from the anus up the urethra to the bladder. If the number of bacteria is high, the bladder is unable to flush these out properly and an infection can easily occur.
Cystitis can be caused by activities such as sexual intercourse, inserting tampons, or wiping or washing your bottom from back to front which can encourage bacteria to travel from the anus to the urethra and then reach the bladder.
The common signs and symptoms of a cystitis attack are:
- a sharp burning, stinging sensation when you pass water
- an urge to pass water more frequently even though there may be very little to pass
- a feeling of not emptying your bladder completely
Relief from pain and irritation with Canesten Oasis
Canesten Oasis provides relief from the symptoms of cystitis. Nothing you can buy over-the counter is more effective than Canesten Oasis.