Try these expert tips:

1. THROW OUT YOUR THONGS

‘They’re a superhighway for bacteria,’ says Dr Anderson. ‘Cotton underwear is best and wear looser jeans or leggings with elastic, rather than tight clothing that rubs. Also, have showers instead of baths, as water can carry bugs up the urethra.’

Read : Interstitial Cystitis

2. AVOID ACID AND SPICE

‘Citrus fruits, tomatoes, vitamin C, artificial sweeteners, coffee, tea, carbonated and alcoholic beverages and spicy foods may exacerbate symptoms in some,’ says Alex Glover, senior nutritionist at Holland & Barrett.

Read: Painful Bladder Syndrome

3. TRUST YOUR GUT

Dr Sammie Gill, registered dietitian at probiotic brand Symprove, says looking after gut health could help prevent cystitis: ‘An imbalanced gut microbiome may increase the opportunity for UTIS. Uropathogens in the gut have been shown to be a risk factor for UTIS in those with kidney transplants.’

4. BUILD UP IMMUNITY

Uva-ursi has unique antiseptic properties and compounds to help maintain bladder health. Echinacea can also help support the body’s immune system. Try Uva-ursi & Echinacea Cystitis Oral Drops, £10.85, avog el.co.uk.

Read : Female Urology – Health and Wellness Blog

5. GET COMFORTABLE

For menopause-related cystitis, Dr Harper recommends using a vaginal moisturising gel to help relieve dryness, discomfort and itching. Try Replens MD Long Lasting Vaginal Moisturiser, £11.49, Boots and Superdrug.