Burning when urinating, a constant urge to urinate and pain in the lower abdomen - many menstruating or female-read people are familiar with the unpleasant symptoms of cystitis. While some are only affected occasionally, for others it returns again and again. But why is this the case? What are the causes of recurrent cystitis and how can you prevent or treat bladder infections naturally? In this article, you'll find out all about the most common triggers, sustainable solutions and proven home remedies.

Bladder infections occur when bacteria, usually Escherichia coli, enter the urethra and multiply in the bladder. While the body's own immune system normally fights off these germs, there are various factors that increase the risk of infection and promote recurring bladder infections. It is often not just a single trigger, but a combination of several factors that lead to chronic susceptibility.

One decisive factor is the bladder's natural protective function. The mucous membranes of the urinary tract are normally colonized by a healthy bacterial flora that prevents pathogens from entering and multiplying. If this delicate balance is disturbed, for example by hormonal changes, stress, a weakened immune system or impaired vaginal flora, infections can spread more easily. A particular problem is that recurring bladder infections often lead to the development of resistant strains of bacteria that are more difficult to treat.

There are also anatomical features that increase the risk of recurrent infections. A shortened urethra, altered bladder function or residual urine formation after urination can lead to bacteria multiplying more easily and not being completely excreted. We will go into the various causes in more detail below.

Menstruating women are particularly susceptible to bladder infections as their urethra is shorter than that of men. This makes it easier for bacteria to ascend into the bladder. In addition, the risk of infection can change during different phases of the menstrual cycle:

• After your period: Hormonal fluctuations and altered vaginal flora can weaken the natural protective barrier.

• During the menopause: A drop in estrogen levels can dry out the mucous membranes and reduce the defenses in the intimate area. Want to learn more about the menopause? Then take a look at this blog post.

Many people notice that cystitis often occurs after sexual intercourse. During sex, bacteria from the anal or vaginal region can enter the urethra. A weakened immune system or a sensitive bladder mucosa can cause germs to multiply more quickly.

Tip: Urinating after sex can help to flush germs out of the urethra. A visit to the toilet should therefore be part of the mandatory after-sex program.

Perfumed intimate hygiene products, aggressive soaps or perfumed panty liners can irritate the mucous membranes and disrupt the balance of the vaginal flora. Synthetic underwear or tight clothing can also impair the ventilation of the intimate area and thus promote the growth of bacteria.

Alternative: Breathable materials such as organic cotton support a healthy environment in the intimate area and reduce the risk of infections. If you're looking for alternatives to scented panty liners, then you should definitely take a look at our Daily collection. There you'll find panty liners that are suitable for everyday use and leave you feeling dry despite discharge. And you know what the best thing is? The panties hardly look any different from ordinary underpants. So no one will notice that you're wearing period underpants. Our recommendation? Our Daily Woman. These underpants not only impress with their daring X-cut-outs on the sides, but also with their absorbency. They replace two tampons or a pad, so you no longer need panty liners and the like. Are you curious and want to take a look at all the breathable panties in our Daily collection? Click here to see our selection.

A weakened immune system makes it easier for pathogens to spread. The immune system is crucial for the defense against bacteria that can cause bladder infections. When the body's own defenses are weakened, it is harder for the body to fight off invading germs.

How does stress affect bladder health?

Long-term stress can impair the immune system, as the body releases more of the stress hormone cortisol. A chronically elevated cortisol level leads to a weakened immune system, making it easier for pathogens to spread. Stress can also unbalance the intestinal and bladder flora, which increases the risk of recurring infections. Last but not least: stress also has an impact on your period. We explain that here. So you can remember that stress leaves nothing in your body unharmed.

Other factors that can weaken the immune system:

• Lack of sleep: the immune system regenerates during sleep. Those who sleep poorly or have too few rest periods are more susceptible to infections. Tired of being tired all the time? Then take a look at our tips for better sleep here.

• Unbalanced diet: A lack of important nutrients such as vitamin C, zinc or iron can weaken the immune system. You can find more helpful nutrition tips here.

• Excessive sugar consumption: Sugar can promote the proliferation of bacteria and impair the bladder's natural defenses.

• Excessive use of antibiotics: Frequent antibiotic treatments can destroy the natural intestinal and bladder flora, making the body more susceptible to new infections.

If you don't want to resort to antibiotics straight away, you can rely on tried-and-tested home remedies and natural treatment methods. These can help to alleviate the symptoms and prevent re-infection.

1. drink a lot & flush the bladder

Sufficient fluids support bladder function and help to flush out bacteria. At least 2-3 liters of water or herbal tea per day is ideal. Particularly helpful are:

• Nettle tea: Anti-inflammatory & diuretic

• Chamomile tea: Soothes the bladder mucosa

• Goldenrod tea: Has an antibacterial & flushing effect

Did you know that adequate hydration is particularly important during your period? We explain more about this here.

2. cranberries & cranberries

Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins, which prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder walls. Important: Make sure you use unsweetened cranberry juice, as many commercially available juices contain too much sugar, which can promote bacterial growth.

3. heat against cramps & pain

A hot water bottle or a warm cherry stone cushion on the lower abdomen can help to relieve pain and relax the bladder muscles. A warm sitz bath with camomile can also have a soothing effect. Pro tip: Use our Taynie heat belt as a hot water bottle replacement. This game changer is a belt with an integrated hot water bottle that is very easy to attach with Velcro - not only helps with abdominal pain, but also with back pain. Click here to take a look at the heat belt.

4. protect intimate areas naturally

• Mild intimate hygiene with water only (no soaps, shower gel etc.)

• Wipe from front to back after using the toilet (our tip: use a bidet)

• Useperiod underwear instead of disposable tampons or synthetic pads to avoid irritation and sweating in the intimate area

• Avoid hypothermia, as cold feet and sitting surfaces can reduce blood flow to the bladder. For warm feet, we recommend our Taynie socks.

Sometimes a medical examination is necessary. Seek medical advice if:

• fever or chills occur → there is an indication of pyelonephritis

• the cystitis lasts longer than 5 days

• blood is visible in the urine

• severe pain occurs in the kidney area

Bladder infections can be stubborn - but with the right strategy, they can be avoided or treated gently. A combination of drinking plenty of fluids, natural remedies such as cranberries, healthy intimate hygiene and stress reduction can help to reduce the risk. Sustainable alternatives such as period underwear instead of tampons or scented pads can also have a positive impact on bladder health.

We at Taynie therefore recommend paying attention to a healthy bladder routine, using natural preventative measures and taking your body's signals seriously.

Author: Taynie.de