Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection (Cystitis)
Also known as: recurrent cystitis, recurrent UTI, bladder infection
Recurrent UTI means two or more bladder infections in six months, or three or more in a year. Each acute infection needs medical assessment and usually antibiotics. Chinese medicine is used between infections, alongside medical care, to support bladder comfort and lower the chance of the next episode.
Plain-English one-pager you can print or hand to a patient. Free, no sign-in needed.
Lifestyle & Diet
- •Drinking more water can reduce recurrences in women who drink little fluid.
- •Ask your GP about preventive options, including vaginal oestrogen after menopause.
- •Pass urine after sex and avoid holding on for long periods.
Cautions & Contraindications
- •Never treat an active infection with Chinese medicine alone. Untreated UTI can spread to the kidneys.[]
- •Avoid strong needle stimulation at CV3 when the bladder is full; ask the patient to empty it first.[]
- •Check herb choices in pregnancy, as several urinary formulas contain contraindicated herbs.[]
Frequently Asked Questions
Can acupuncture prevent bladder infections?+
A few small trials suggest acupuncture may reduce recurrences in women, but the evidence is limited. Each infection still needs medical assessment, and preventive options should be discussed with your GP.
Should I use herbs instead of antibiotics for a UTI?+
No. An active urinary infection needs medical assessment. Chinese medicine is used between infections, alongside your doctor's advice.
Explore more diseases
Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.