Preventative Measures

There are steps you can take which may prevent attacks of bacterial cystitis/UTIs. 

• Increase your fluid intake with water or diluted squash.
• Avoid alcohol, pure fruit juices, tea or coffee as they can irritate the bladder.
• D-Mannose may help as it can prevent some bacteria from ahering to the lining of the bladder.
• Wear clothes made of natural materials such as cotton or linen. Do not wear thongs.
• Always wipe from front to back when using the toilet.
• Wash the anal area after a bowel movement.
• Empty your bladder as soon as you feel the need.
• Examine your diet - decrease your intake of junk foods and increase your intake of vegetables.
• For women who have been through the menopause, oestrogen replacement treatment in the form of pessaries or topical cream may prove useful.
• The use of spermicidal products can destroy lactobacilli (good bacteria). If necessary, revise your method of contraception.
• Wash the genital area prior to sex and urinate within 15 minutes afterwards to help flush away any bacteria. 

Prevention of Recurrent Cystitis/UTIs

Individuals who get cystitis recurrently may be prescribed a course of antibiotics to keep at home which they can take at the onset of an attack. Sometimes a low dose of antibiotics is prescribed for three to six months to reduce the risk of infection or Hiprex (Methenamine Hippurate) may be used twice daily to keep the bladder clear from infection . If you get cystitis after sexual intercourse you may be advised to take a single dose of antibiotics immediately afterwards to prevent an attack.

There are natural products such as D-Mannose which may be useful in clearing gram-negative organisms such as E-Coli from the bladder.

It is important to have a urine sample sent off to the laboratory to confirm whether an infection is present and to discover which antibiotic is required.

Recurring infections should be investigated and a referral to a urologist may be recommended.