Sun, sea and… cystitis? One in three women suffer with the burning pain of recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs), with estimates suggesting a third will have had at least one bout by the time they reach 24. But summer always brings a surge in UTIs, with cystitis being the most common.
During the warmer months we tend to spend longer periods with a drink in our hand – whether that’s an afternoon at a barbecue or enjoying wine with an al fresco lunch. “We drink more alcohol and less water, often with salty snacks on picnics, which increases our risk of dehydration,” women’s health expert Dr Catherine Hood explains.
“Dehydration can reduce the amount of harmful bacteria that’s released from the bladder as well as unbalance the pH of urine, leading to cystitis. Being on beaches and in parks can mean we don’t always go to the toilet when we need to as there aren’t facilities near by.”
Long days lying by the pool can also lead to infections. “After swimming, women may sit around in a wet bathing costume and – thanks to the heat – may also sweat more, including in the groin area. This can all encourage bacteria growth,” says Dr Hood.
Then there’s summer loving. It is estimated that sex-induced cystitis accounts for around 60 per cent for recurrent cases.
“As cystitis is mostly caused by bacteria from the rectum, movements during sex help move these bacteria up the urethra into the bladder. Using a diaphragm for contraception may also increase the risk, while hormonal changes, including those during pregnancy and the menopause, are also risk factors,” explains Dr Hood.
So what symptoms should you look out for? “Alongside, burning or stinging when you pee, other symptoms can include needing to pee regularly,” she says.
“Passing only a little or no urine, cloudy, dark or strong-smelling urine can also be signs you have developed cystitis, as can pain in the lower tummy, incontinence, a high temperature and/or generally feeling more tired than usual or unwell.”
It’s very important not to ignore these symptoms.
Pharmacist Sultan Dajani adds: “Cystitis is painful and can require treatment with antibiotics but it can occasionally progress to a kidney infection, which can cause serious health problems.”
If you do have symptoms and are struggling to get a GP appointment, you can now do a test and be prescribed antibiotics at your local pharmacy. Luckily, there are ways to avoid an infection before things become uncomfortable.
Drink up: Effective hydration will generally make you pee more often, flushing UTI-causing bacteria out, according to pharmacist Sultan Dajani. “Keep a bottle of water close,” he advises. He also recommends having a large glass of water straight after sex too. “This strengthens your pee stream and reduces the chances of bacteria managing to stick to the wall of your bladder and urinary tract.”
Care for down there: To prevent UTIs from developing and reoccurring, it’s best to keep your genital area dry from sweat and urine. “If using liners, due to leaks of urine, make sure to change them regularly,” says Dr Hood. “Wear cotton underwear too and stay clear of tight-fitting trousers.” Avoid bubble baths and feminine wipes as these can cause irritation too. Wash your genital area before and after sex. This helps keep bacteria away from the urethra,” she adds.
Don’t hold it: Need to wee? Research shows that holding in urine for a long time on a regular basis is a risk factor for UTIs. Dr Hood says you should also have a wee and empty your bladder after sex, including oral sex. “Lean back on the loo when passing urine and wait for the last few drops to pass out.”
Soothe your symptoms: There are over-the-counter products, such as Effercitrate tablets, which can reduce the unpleasant stinging symptoms. The ingredient potassium citrate helps make the urine more alkaline, helping to soothe the bladder and urethra lining and relieve the discomfort,” says Dr Hood, who works as an adviser to the brand.