What you need to know about this common (and painful) condition.

They are extremely common, can be painful, and may develop into more serious medical conditions.

Half of all women will have recurrent cystitis at some point – and anyone who’s had an episode knows they’re awful.

I was 12 when I first got one. Not knowing what was happening, I tried to ignore it for as long as possible. When going to the toilet became too unpleasant due to the pain and burning sensation, I finally talked to my mum, who took me to the doctor. Thankfully, my symptoms cleared up quickly after treatment.

After that experience though, I was willing to try just about anything to prevent it happening again. But a huge part of prevention is information. Knowing the facts can help you avoid this common infection.

So here are some well-researched tips to help prevent recurrent cystitis.

1. What is a urinary tract infection?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can involve any part of the urinary tract, including the kidneys; however, most infections will involve the lower tract, more specifically the bladder, and infection in this area is known as cystitis.

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2. How should your urinary system be working?

The urinary system removes some waste from the body via urine. It filters urine from the kidneys through two tubes known as the ureters, which collects in the bladder and is then passed from the body through another tube, known as the urethra.

3. How do you get cystitis?

Cystitis, the most common UTI, is mainly caused by bacteria called E.coli. It can occur when the bacteria enters your urinary system through the urethra and travels up to the bladder where it attaches to the urinary tract wall, multiplies and can lead to often painful symptoms. If left untreated, it can lead to a more serious condition.

4. What if you’re getting cystitis all the time?

Recurrent cystitis is classified as three or more episodes per year or two episodes in the previous six months.

5. How do you know if you have recurrent cystitis?

You might experience the frequent need to urinate, even when your bladder is not full, pain or a burning sensation when urinating, urine that appears cloudy or discoloured, lower abdominal pain and urinary incontinence.

6. When should you talk to a doctor?

If pain or irritation persists for more than 48 hours, consult your doctor. If there’s blood in the urine, you need immediate medical attention.

7. Are women just as likely to get it as men?

Recurrent cystitis is more common in women than men. Fifty per cent of females and only five per cent of males will get recurrent cystitis in their lifetime.

WHY?  Because of differences in anatomy: women have a much shorter urethra which allows the bacteria to travel more easily to the bladder.

Twenty to 30 per cent of women suffering from an episode of cystitis will have a recurrence.

8. Who is more likely to get it?

Younger women who:

• Have frequent sex, particularly with different partners (this is why women are encouraged to urinate before and after sex)
• Are less than 15 years old when they have their first episode
• Have a mother with history of recurrent cystitis
• Use spermicides
• Are pregnant

Older women who are:

• Postmenopausal
• Urinary incontinent
• Have a prolapsed bladder due to vaginal wall weakening

9. Why are pregnant women more likely to get it?

During pregnancy the increasing weight of the unborn baby puts pressure on the urinary tract and can block the normal drainage of urine from the bladder, which can lead to recurrent cystitis.

Recurrent cystitis in pregnant women is particularly prominent from weeks 6-24 of pregnancy.

10. And why post-menopausal women?

Recurrent cystitis in this group is thought to be due to reduced oestrogen levels which can change the microflora in the vaginal area and promote E. coli dominance, as well as contribute to urinary tract tissues weakening, hence increasing vulnerability to bacteria.

11. How can you help prevent recurrent cystitis?

Research has shown that cranberry supplements can help maintain a healthy urinary tract and help reduce the frequency of recurrent cystitis.

To help reduce the frequency of recurrent cystitis, a good idea is to take a packet of Ellura every few months or when you first feel vulnerable. Ellura is a concentrated cranberry extract designed to help maintain urinary tract health. Each capsule of Ellura is equivalent to the juice of 70g of fresh cranberry fruit. It has been used worldwide for many years and can be used by women of all ages, including during pregnancy.

Take it from me, it’s worth doing everything you can to avoid this unpleasant (to say the least) experience.

Have you had recurrent cystitis? What was your experience?

Want more? How about:

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Ellura by Flordis is a concentrated cranberry juice extract clinically researched to
promote urinary tract health in women. With a single daily capsule containing the recommended daily dose of 36 mg of PACs, Ellura helps reduce the frequency of recurrent cystitis.

Learn more about the health benefits of Ellura. Visit Ellura.com.au

Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional. Warning: If pain or irritation persists for more than 48 hours, consult your doctor. The presence of blood in the urine warrants immediate medical attention.