Cystitis is a very common disease: 26-36 million cases are reported annually in Russia. On the one hand, many people know its main symptoms and have an understanding of the methods of treatment. On the other hand, the disease has acquired a number of persistent myths. Let's deal with some of them.
Myth 1. To prevent cystitis, frequent intimate hygiene with soap is required
Good personal hygiene does reduce the risk of cystitis, but frequent use of soap is not required. Its components can contribute to a change in the acidity and microbiota of the vagina: this is one of the risk factors for the development of vaginosis and, as a result, cystitis.
The vagina is able to maintain its own cleanliness with the help of natural secretions, according to the website of the NHS (British health system). Therefore, excessive diligence in the use of soap is not required. You can learn about the rules of intimate hygiene from the recommendations of Rospotrebnadzor.
Myth 2. Cloudy urine is a sure sign of cystitis
Clouding of urine - indeed, usually accompanies urinary tract infections. In addition to cystitis, these include urethritis and pyelonephritis. But neither the transparency nor the smell of urine can be called an accurate diagnostic criterion: they are too dependent on how much we drink and what we eat.
The study showed that on the basis of clear urine, a patient cannot claim that he has no urinary tract infection: such a diagnosis will be wrong in 60% of cases. In a patient with cloudy urine, such an infection will be detected with a probability of 86%.
Myth 3. The risk of cystitis is only in those who are sexually active
In the guidelines for the prevention and treatment of cystitis of sexual activity, much attention is deservedly paid. But there are a number of risk factors that are not associated with it: improper intimate hygiene, concomitant diseases (diabetes mellitus), the use of a urinary catheter, old age, pregnancy, the use of diaphragms for contraception, diabetes mellitus, weakening of the immune system.
Myth 4. Cystitis can go away on its own
It really is possible. Studies have shown that uncomplicated cystitis resolves on its own in 25-42% of cases. Thus, the likelihood that this will not happen is very high. The course of cystitis, which is left without treatment, may become recurrent. Without therapy, the infection can enter the kidneys and complications are possible.
Myth 5. Cranberry juice is a panacea against cystitis
Cranberry juice contains proanthocyanidins - substances that can interfere with the attachment of bacteria to the walls of the bladder. Alas, there is not enough evidence that this natural and tasty remedy can help fight cystitis. At the same time, drinking enough is a necessary part of the treatment and prevention of cystitis.
Myth 6. Cystitis will prevent the use of probiotics
Bacterial vaginosis, which is based on abnormalities in the vaginal microbiota, is an important risk factor for cystitis. In theory, probiotics could help restore or maintain a healthy microbiota. But scientists have never proven that vaginal probiotics prevent urinary tract infections. People who take them shouldn't expect significant benefits.
Myth 7. Cystitis occurs only in women
Cystitis and other urinary tract infections are indeed significantly more likely to be diagnosed in women. This is due to the fact that they have more anatomical prerequisites for the penetration of infection into the urinary tract (for example, a shorter urethra).
Men also have cystitis. Its risk increases with age: against the background of an enlarged prostate gland, with the appearance of concomitant diseases (diabetes and others), after a decrease in immunity. At a young age, cystitis in men often develops against the background of any abnormalities of the urinary tract.