What it is
Urinary tract infections are mostly caused by bacteria travelling up the urethra into the bladder (cystitis) and, less often, up to the kidneys (pyelonephritis).
Cystitis is considered recurrent when there are at least two episodes in six months or three in a year. There is often a contributing factor: sexual intercourse, hormonal changes during menopause, constipation, incomplete bladder emptying or, in men, a prostate problem.
Draft diagram: to be validated by Dr. Greco before launch.
The urinary tract
- Kidneys · filter the blood and produce urine
- Ureters · carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder
- Bladder · stores urine; this is where cystitis occurs
- Urethra · the channel through which urine leaves the body
The arrows show bacteria travelling up the urethra to the bladder and, more rarely, up to the kidneys.
Simplified diagram, not to scale.
Common symptoms
- Burning or pain when passing urine
- An urgent, frequent need to go, even with little urine
- Pain or heaviness in the lower abdomen
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine, or traces of blood
How it is diagnosed
The aim is to confirm the infection and, above all, to understand what is triggering it:
- urinalysis and urine culture with sensitivity testing, to choose the most effective treatment
- kidney and bladder ultrasound, including how much urine remains after voiding
- a detailed conversation about habits, bowel function, menstrual cycle, menopause and sexual activity
- in men, an assessment of the prostate
Treatment options
Care combines treating the current episode with preventing the next one:
When not to wait
Contact a doctor promptly if you notice:
- high fever, shivering or pain in your side: these may signal an infection reaching the kidneys;
- urinary symptoms during pregnancy;
- blood in the urine, even without pain.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my cystitis keep coming back?
There can be several reasons: bacteria from the bowel, sexual intercourse, hormonal changes, incomplete bladder emptying or habits that make it easier for bacteria to travel upwards. Identifying the main factor is the first step to reducing recurrences.
Do I always need a urine culture?
It is very useful for recurrent infections, for infections that do not respond to treatment, in men and in pregnancy: it identifies the bacterium and helps choose the right antibiotic.
Can men get cystitis?
Yes, although it is less common. In men a urinary infection should always be investigated, as it may be linked to the prostate or to an obstruction of urine flow.
I get cystitis after sex. What can I do?
This is common and nothing to be embarrassed about. There are practical measures and, when needed, targeted prevention strategies, which can be discussed during your visit.
This page provides general information and does not replace a consultation: every situation needs to be assessed by a specialist.