Treating cystitis in women
cystitis · bladder infection · UTI · burning when peeing
Cystitis is inflammation of the bladder, most often caused by germs. It is usually treated with a short course of medicine.
For burning and pain when you pee, frequent urges to pee, and pain low in the belly.
⏱ Duration: the visit takes 15 to 30 minutes; a urine test usually takes 1 to 3 days, a urine culture 3 to 7 days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Urine test. Usually you need morning urine in a sterile container, after washing.
- Medicines. Do not start antibiotics on your own before the test, if you can wait for the visit.
- Drinks. Drink plain water as you usually do.
What to bring
- Your ID
- A urine container, if you were asked to bring one
- Past test results, if cystitis keeps coming back
How it goes
- The doctor asks about your symptoms
- You are sent for a urine test
- Sometimes you are examined or an ultrasound is ordered
- Treatment is prescribed, and the doctor explains how to take it
- If cystitis is frequent, more tests are ordered
What you'll feel
- You usually feel better after 1 to 3 days of treatment
- The exam is painless
Afterwards
- Finish the whole course, even if you feel better
- Drink enough water
- Do not hold it in when you need to pee
- If cystitis comes back, see the doctor again
Contact a doctor straight away if
- A fever over 38°C and lower back pain
- Blood in the urine
- No improvement after 2 to 3 days of treatment
- Symptoms of cystitis during pregnancy: see a doctor the same day
Common questions
Can a heating pad cure cystitis?
Warmth can sometimes ease the pain, but it does not get rid of the germs. The doctor prescribes treatment.
Why does cystitis keep coming back?
There are many reasons. If it comes back often, the doctor will order tests and suggest ways to prevent it.