Honeymoon cystitis is a bladder infection that occurs with frequent sexual activity, mainly in women. Symptoms include burning during urination, changes in urine appearance, and feeling unwell. Antibiotics and preventative measures can help treat and prevent recurrence. Women are at higher risk than men, and couples may need therapy to cope with the impact on their relationship.
Honeymoon cystitis refers to bladder infections that occur or recur with frequent sexual intercourse. This description of cystitis usually only applies to women and refers to their increased level of sexual activity after marriage. Any sexually active woman can develop this condition with more frequent intercourse or after acquiring a new sexual partner. Numerous symptoms are associated with this disease, such as burning when urinating, changes in the appearance of the urine, and occasionally a general feeling of unwellness. Doctors typically treat a single case of honeymoon cystitis with antibiotics and recommend preventative measures that can reduce recurrences.
Two risk factors for cystitis in women are increased sexual activity or intercourse with a new partner. In addition, more than 50% of women with recurrent cystitis develop it due to one or both of these factors. Men are much less at risk than women for this condition because they have a longer urethra, which prevents some infections; the prostate gland also produces secretions that fight bacteria. Bladder infections in men after sexual activity are more likely associated with contracting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as chlamydia.
Symptoms of honeymoon cystitis can appear within a few days of intercourse. Women may notice a burning sensation when they urinate, and the urine may look cloudy, dark or even contain blood. Some other symptoms reported with this condition include headache, feeling tired, low-grade fever, or increased urinary frequency.
These symptoms warrant a visit to a doctor, where a doctor can test your urine for the presence of bacteria. If found, he will prescribe antibiotics. Doctors typically suggest home care measures as well, if they believe the condition is true honeymoon cystitis or any other form of bladder infection.
Doctors usually recommend drinking more water and drinking cranberry juice or taking cranberry capsules. Women are advised to empty their bladder completely when urinating. Specifically for the prevention of honeymoon cystitis, doctors recommend that women avoid diaphragms and spermicides, completely empty their bladder after intercourse, and use a water-based lubricant during sex.
Honeymoon cystitis is indicated in more than half of recurrent bladder infections and requires additional treatment. One approach is to use antibiotics prophylactically before intercourse to prevent infections. Alternatively, women can be given antibiotics with each new infection. The prophylactic approach may be more favored because it uses fewer antibiotics.
The recurring form of honeymoon cystitis is challenging as it is uncomfortable for women and can mean that partners have to give up sex on a regular basis. This can lead to problems in a relationship, which are not always resolved by medical interventions or home care. Couples who are challenged by diminishing sexual intimacy may receive assistance from a qualified couple or marriage therapist.
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