cystitis

Inflammation of the bladder, usually caused by bacterial infection, and resulting in frequent and painful urination. It is more common in women. Treatment is by antibiotics and copious fluids with vitamin C.

Cystitis is more common after sexual intercourse, and it is thought that intercourse encourages bacteria, especially Escherichia coli, which are normally present on the skin around the anus and vagina, to enter the urethra and ascend to the bladder. By drinking water before intercourse, and passing urine afterwards, the incidence of cystitis can be reduced, because the bacteria are driven back down the urethra.