Do I have a UTI?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is usually a bacterial infection of the bladder, also called cystitis. It is very common, especially in women. Typical symptoms are:
- A burning or stinging feeling when you urinate
- Needing to urinate often or urgently, but passing only a little
- Cloudy, dark or strong-smelling urine
- Pain or pressure low in your tummy, above the pubic bone
- Sometimes a little blood in the urine
Uncomplicated bladder infections in women who are not pregnant can often be diagnosed from symptoms alone. That makes them one of the conditions best suited to a video consultation.
When a UTI needs urgent, in-person care
- Fever, chills or shivering
- Pain in your back or side, below the ribs
- Nausea or vomiting, or you can't keep fluids or tablets down
- Confusion, or you feel very unwell
- Blood clots in your urine, or you can't pass urine at all
The doctor may also ask for a urine test before treating you if you are pregnant, male, diabetic, have a catheter, have had a UTI recently, or if treatment hasn't worked. For a child with urinary symptoms, see sick child consultations.
From symptoms to treatment in 3 steps
Book a GP
Choose a doctor and time online or on WhatsApp. Many doctors consult early mornings, evenings and weekends.
Private video consult
The doctor asks about your symptoms, history, allergies and whether you could be pregnant.
Prescription & advice
If antibiotics are appropriate, you get a prescription for your pharmacy, plus a sick note if you need one.
Self-care for UTI symptoms
- Drink plenty of water to help flush your bladder.
- Take paracetamol for pain if it's safe for you.
- Urinate when you need to; don't hold it in.
- Avoid alcohol and too much caffeine until you feel better.
- If you are prescribed antibiotics, finish the whole course, even if you feel better sooner.
Cranberry products and urinary alkalisers from the pharmacy may ease discomfort, but they don't replace treatment of an established infection. Book a doctor if your symptoms don't settle within a day or two, or straight away if you have any of the warning signs above.