Cystitis And Other UTIs

Cystitis is a form of urinary tract infection, or UTI. It usually occurs when a bacterial infection enters the urethra, that tube between the bladder and the outside of the body through which urine is eliminated. Symptoms of infection include burning pain during urination and frequent urinary necessity despite little or no actual urination.

UTIs are almost ten times more common in women than they are in men. Most women have had at least one UTI or bladder infection during the course of their lives. Each year in the U.S., approximately 2 million people, mainly women, suffer from UTIs. According to a survey published in Prevention magazine, UTI is the most common women’s health problem reported.

About 15% of those that contract Cystitis or other UTIs will develop chronic recurrences of this condition. According to The Alternative Medicine Guide to Women’s Health Volume 1, there are 14 factors which contribute to Cystitis/UTIs:

1. Hygienic Shortcomings

2. Sexual intercourse (Honeymoon cystitis)

3. Contraceptive devices

4. Tampon use

5. Antibiotics

6. Inadequate intake of fluids

7. Diet

8. Chronic constipation

9. Uterine prolapse

10. Hormonal changes

11. Underactive thyroid

12. Acidic urine

13. Energy blockages

14. Unexpressed anger or resentment