Patient guide to urinary tract infection
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About urinary tract infection
Urinary tract infection (cystitis) is a common illness, particularly in women. It is caused by bacteria entering the bladder through the urethra.
Most urinary tract infections are harmless and clear up on their own. However, the condition can recur frequently or carry a risk of complications by travelling upwards through the urinary tract and causing a kidney infection.
Symptoms of urinary tract infection are stinging and pain when peeing and an increased need to pee
Treatment of urinary tract infection
Urinary tract infection is treated with prescribed antibiotics.
- Follow our instructions for taking antibiotics (also on the medicine box).
- Read the patient information leaflet. The most common side effects are nausea, stomach pain and diarrhoea. Stop taking the medicine and contact us if you suspect other side effects.
- Always complete the full course of treatment, even if the symptoms go away during it.
- Pain or discomfort can be relieved with Panodil (over the counter): 1 g no more than 4 times daily.
Precautions for urinary tract infection
Call us or the medical helpline 1813/the out-of-hours doctor immediately if you have signs of a kidney infection:
- Fever above 38.5°
- Pain in the flank or side
- Marked tiredness, dizziness or confusion
Follow-up
Antibiotics usually work after 12–48 hours. If symptoms do not improve within two days, contact us again.
Preventing urinary tract infection
- Always pee after sex.
- Drink plenty of fluids (1.5–2 litres daily).
- Empty your bladder regularly – preferably every 3–4 hours during the day.
- Wipe from front to back after using the toilet so that bacteria are not carried from the rectum to the urethra.
- Take a daily cranberry supplement (over the counter). The pharmacy can advise you.
- For women after menopause: local oestrogen treatment (prescription required) can help restore the lining’s natural defences. Contact us if you would like to discuss this.
Clinically updated 27 November 2025
If you are in doubt, call us
Call the clinic on 73 70 81 10