I have cystitis

Cystitis is inflammation of the bladder. It is usually caused by bacteria, but it can also happen for other reasons. It can make you feel like you need to pee often, or cause pain or burning when you go. It’s more common in women, but anyone can get it.

Watch this video to know more about cystitis.

Most of the time, cystitis is caused by bacteria called E. coli, which normally live in the bowel. These bacteria can sometimes enter the urinary tract and cause an infection. It’s not always clear how E. coli gets into the urinary tract, but some things that can increase the risk include:

• Having sex.
• Wiping from back to front after using the toilet.
• Using a diaphragm for birth control.
• Not drinking enough water and being constipated (when you have trouble passing stool) can make urinary problems worse and can also increase the risk of getting cystitis.
• Lower oestrogen levels after menopause can cause changes in the tissues around the vagina and urinary tract, which may increase the risk of cystitis.

Cystitis is usually not serious and often improves within a few days. However, it is important to seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, do not improve, or if you have signs that the infection may have spread to the kidneys.

This chapter contains general information about cystitis. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for guidance on your individual medical situation.

Last updated: April 2026

Reviewed by: 

• Prof. Dr. Adrian Pilatz (EAU Guidelines Panel on Urological Infections)