Who is at risk?

Women are more at risk

Women in their late teens and older are most susceptible to cystitis, especially if they are sexually active. The female urethra is only 4cm long, which gives bacteria easy access to the bladder. Female sex hormones influence the vaginal secretions that affect the ability of bacteria to survive. This makes a woman more susceptible to infection during certain times including:

Certain stages of the menstrual cycle

During pregnancy

During menopause

After a total hysterectomy.

Men and the elderly

Men tend to get cystitis later in life. Trouble with urine flow in men may indicate problems with the prostate gland. Cystitis is common in elderly people, particularly if they are unwell. Bladder catheters and some urinary tract operations may also increase the risk of cystitis.

Children

Cystitis in a child always needs to be investigated because it may indicate a more serious condition such as vesico-ureteric reflux. This is a bladder valve abnormality, which allows urine to flow back towards the kidneys.