Thousands of women experience cystitis each summer, a throbbing or stinging urinary tract infection (UTI) that targets the bladder. According to the NHS, symptoms include stinging during urination, frequent urges to urinate, dark or cloudy urine, and stomach pain. The condition is usually caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract and multiplying, often due to pregnancy, menopause, dehydration, or a weakened immune system.
How Common Is Cystitis?
Between 50% and 60% of women will experience cystitis at least once in their lifetime, compared to 12% to 14% of men. One-third of women will have had it by age 24, and one in three women experience recurrent infections. On Reddit's r/Interstitialcystitis, users report summer flares. @SweetRollsandSkooma wrote: 'I’ve noticed over the last couple of years that summertime is when I get the most flares.' @hantricote added: 'Heat certainly seems to play a role for me,' while @Rare_Dog_4724 described the heat as wreaking 'unbearable' havoc, stating: 'I love the winter. My bladder doesn’t flare as much because it’s cold and the sweat is non-existent.'
Why Does Summer Increase Cystitis Risk?
Dehydration is a key factor. Dr Babak Ashrafi, GP for Superdrug online doctor, explains: 'When we’re dehydrated, urine becomes more concentrated, which can irritate the bladder and increase the risk of infections developing.' Pharmacist Noel Wicks notes that unpredictable British summer weather creates a 'perfect storm' for cystitis. 'During summer months, temperatures fluctuate significantly. It may be chilly and damp one day, then warm and sunny the next. These shifts can impact hydration levels, immune function and bacterial growth, all of which play a role in cystitis risk,' he says.
Sweating also contributes. Noel adds: 'Naturally, we will sweat more, and this includes in the groin area, which can encourage bacterial growth. Warm, moist environments encourage bacterial growth… even small environmental changes can upset the delicate balance of bacteria around the urinary tract.'
Prevention Tips
The NHS recommends: wiping from front to back, keeping genitals clean and dry, drinking plenty of water, washing the skin around the vagina before and after sex, urinating after sex, and wearing cotton underwear. Summer activities like swimming, hiking, and gym sessions can increase risk due to tight clothing and damp swimwear. Dr Babak adds that holding in urine during travel or festivals further raises risk. Limiting alcohol and caffeine is advised as both contribute to dehydration and bladder irritation.
Sex-induced cystitis accounts for roughly 60% of recurrent cases. Dr Catherine Hood previously told Metro that certain positions, like sex from behind, can increase risk, especially with more sexual activity in summer.
Thrush and bacterial vaginosis (BV) are also more common in summer due to warm weather and lifestyle changes. For more on protecting against these, consult a GP.
