A doctor has warned that the hot weather, while perfect for barbecues and beach days, can increase the risk of cystitis, a common urinary tract infection (UTI) affecting many women. Around one in three women experience cystitis by age 24, and one in three suffer recurrent infections. Factors such as increased sweating, dehydration, and lingering in wet swimwear raise the risk.
Why Hot Weather Increases Risk
“Studies show that warmer weather increases the risk for UTIs,” said Dr Janine David, women’s health expert and adviser to Effercitrate Tablets. “Often it’s because sweat around the groin area can encourage bacterial growth.” She added that hot weather can lead to dehydration, making urine more concentrated and reducing the frequency of urination, which irritates the bladder and hampers its ability to flush out bacteria. Summer holidays, festivals, and long days out often mean people stay in damp swimwear longer or fail to drink enough fluids.
Sex as a Trigger
“Sex is another common trigger, accounting for around 60% of recurrent cystitis cases,” Dr David noted. “Cystitis is mostly caused by bacteria from the rectum, so movements during sex move bacteria up the urethra into the bladder.” Symptoms include a burning or stinging sensation when urinating, needing to urinate frequently but passing little urine, lower stomach pain, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, a high temperature, and feeling generally unwell.
Four Ways to Reduce Risk and Ease Symptoms
Don’t stay in wet swimwear: Swimming and sweat create an environment for bacteria. “Change out of wet clothing immediately. Wear cotton underwear as it allows the vagina to breathe. Avoid tight-fitting trousers too,” advised Dr David.
Don’t ignore early symptoms: “The pain and discomfort caused by cystitis can be debilitating. If you are experiencing the discomfort of cystitis, Effercitrate Tablets can help relieve symptoms. The effervescent tablets contain potassium citrate, which, when dissolved, makes urine more alkaline and can help soothe the bladder and urethra lining, easing the burning and stinging sensations associated with cystitis,” she said.
Keep fluids topped up: The government recommends six to eight cups of fluid daily to promote urination and flush bacteria. Dr David also suggested a large glass of water straight after sex. “This strengthens your urinary stream and reduces the chances of bacteria sticking to the wall of your bladder and urinary tract.”
Feed your gut: Maintaining healthy gut microbes supports immune function and reduces infection risk. “Eat a diet rich in fruit, vegetables and fibre (think whole grains, nuts, seeds) supports healthy gut bacteria and immune function. Fermented foods such as live yoghurt alongside probiotic supplements, may help maintain microbial balance,” Dr David explained.
If symptoms don’t improve within a couple of days, keep returning, or are accompanied by a fever, blood in the urine, or side pain, seek medical advice for further assessment.
