Private urinary tract infection clinic in London, same-day urology.

Typical symptoms

• burning, stinging or pain when passing urine;
• needing to go far more often, and urgently;
• passing only small amounts, and feeling you have not finished;
• cloudy, dark or strong-smelling urine;
• a dull ache low in the abdomen or the lower back;
• generally feeling below par.

Self-care for a mild infection

Around half of straightforward bladder infections in otherwise healthy women settle without antibiotics within a few days. It is reasonable to try self-care for 48 hours if you are not unwell in yourself and have none of the warning signs above.

• Drink enough that your urine is pale — you do not need to force litres, just keep steadily hydrated.
• Paracetamol or ibuprofen at the dose on the packet for the pain and any temperature.
• Do not hold on. Pass urine as soon as you feel the need, and try to empty the bladder fully each time.
• A hot water bottle against the lower abdomen or back can help the ache.
• Avoid sex until symptoms have gone.

Antibiotics

• For a straightforward bladder infection in a woman, a three-day course is usually enough. Men, pregnant women and more complicated infections need longer.
• Symptoms typically improve within 48 hours of starting. Finish the course even once you feel better.
• Tell us about any antibiotic allergy before you start, and about other medicines you take.
• Contact us if you are no better after two days, if symptoms return quickly after finishing, or if you develop diarrhoea, a rash or any other reaction.
• A urine sample may be sent to the laboratory to identify the bacteria and confirm the antibiotic is the right one. This is routine, and we will contact you if the result means a change is needed.

Reducing the chance of it coming back

• Drink enough fluid through the day rather than in large amounts occasionally.
• Do not delay passing urine, and empty the bladder fully — do not rush.
• Pass urine shortly after sex.
• Wipe from front to back.
• Avoid perfumed soaps, bubble baths, douches and feminine hygiene sprays. Wash with water or an unperfumed emollient.
• Consider whether a spermicide-containing contraceptive or a diaphragm is contributing — we can discuss alternatives.
• After the menopause, vaginal dryness makes infections more likely, and topical vaginal oestrogen substantially reduces recurrence for many women. It is worth asking about.