Cystitis is an infection of the bladder. The bladder is the part
of the urinary tract that collects the urine from the kidneys.
The Urinary Tract Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. The
urinary tract normally contains no microorganisms. However,
sometimes bacteria or yeast from the lower gastrointestinal
tract or rectal area enter the urinary tract. This usually
happens through the urethra (tube that allows urine to pass out
from the bladder). When bacteria or yeast cling to the urethra,
they can multiply and infect the urethra. They can then travel
up and infect the bladder. Most cases of cystitis are caused by
bacteria from the rectal area. In women, the rectum and urethra
are fairly close to each other. This makes it relatively easy
for bacteria to make their way into the urethra. Some women
develop cystitis after a period of frequent sexual intercourse.
This happens because bacteria enter the urethra during sex and
cause infection. A risk factor is something that increases your
chance of getting a dis