Women's Health

Question 1

What Is Cystitis?

Answer 1

Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder.

Question 2

What Causes Cystitis?

Answer 2

Bacteria from the GI tract that have gained access to the bladder through the urethra is the most common cause of cystitis.

Common agents - Escheria coli (80% cases); Staphylococcus (up to 10% cases) & Proteus

Question 3

Why is Cystitis more common in women than men

Answer 3

Women have a shorter urethra so less distance for bacteria to travel to gain access to the bladder.
The prostate fluid also has some antibacterial property.

Question 4

**Factors increasing risk of Cystitis **

Answer 4

Sexual intercourse
Previous cystitis episode/UTI
Tampon Use
Using a diaphram/Spermacidal agents for contraception
Menopause/Advancing age
Diabetes
Pregnancy
Enlarged prostate

Question 5

Symptoms Of Cystitis

Answer 5

Wanting to urinate more frequently
Urgency
Pain/Burning/Stinging upon urinating even though only a few drops may be passed.
Dark, cloudy or strong smelling urine.

Question 6

Referral Criteria for Cystitis

PGD For UTI Referral Criteria

Answer 6

• Children under 12 years (Rare in children): PDG only allows treatment of UTI over 16 years.
• Pregnant Women
• Men: especially elderly(can be related to prostate enlargement in elderly/rare in men)
• Vaginal Discharge
• Fever/symptoms suggesting systemic infection

Question 7

Definition Of Recurrent Cystitis

Answer 7

Defined as THREE episodes in the past 12 months or TWO in the last 6 months
- Relatively common even though no identifiable risk factors present.

Question 8

Common Issues With Same Symptoms As Cystitis Need To Rule Out

Answer 8

Most likley: Acute uncomplicated cystitis
Likley : Pyelonephritis
Unlikely: Sexually transmitted disease, Oestrogen deficiency
Very unlikely: Medicines-induced cystitis, vaginitis