Urinary tract infection (UTI)
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in part of the urinary system, most often the bladder. It is very common, particularly in women. Mild infections sometimes clear up on their own within a few days, but antibiotics are usually the quickest way to feel better.
- Common in
- Women
- Antibiotics
- Usually the quickest treatment
- Pharmacy First
- Women aged 16 to 64, uncomplicated
Common symptoms
- Pain, burning or stinging when you pass urine
- Needing to pass urine more often, or urgently, including at night
- Feeling that you cannot empty your bladder fully
- Cloudy, dark or strong-smelling urine
- Blood in your urine
- Pain or pressure in your lower tummy
- Feeling tired, achy or generally unwell
What you can do yourself
- Drink plenty of water regularly, so that your urine stays pale.
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain if they are suitable for you. Ask us if you are unsure.
- A warm hot water bottle held against your lower tummy can be soothing.
- Pass urine when you need to, and try to empty your bladder fully.
- Wipe from front to back after using the toilet, and pass urine after sex.
- Avoid perfumed soaps, washes and talcs around the genital area.
How PRX Pharmacy can help
Through Pharmacy First, our pharmacists can assess uncomplicated UTIs in women aged 16 to 64 without a GP appointment. They will ask about your symptoms, check that this route is suitable for you, and, if appropriate, supply antibiotics.
Some situations need a doctor's assessment instead — for example if you are pregnant, have a urinary catheter, have had repeated UTIs, have a weakened immune system, or have signs that the infection has reached your kidneys. Your pharmacist will explain and point you to the right care. UTIs in men, children under 16 and adults over 64 also need to be seen by a doctor.
When to get medical help
Call 999 or go to A&E if:
- • You have signs of a serious infection: confusion, unusual drowsiness, fast breathing, cold, clammy or mottled skin, or you have not passed urine all day and feel extremely unwell
Contact your GP practice or call 111 the same day if:
- • You have a temperature of 38°C or above, or feel shivery and shaky
- • You have pain in your back or side, under the ribs (this can mean a kidney infection)
- • You are feeling sick or being sick
- • You are pregnant
- • There is blood in your urine
- • You are a man, a child, or over 64
- • You have a urinary catheter, or have had repeated UTIs
- • Your symptoms have not improved within 2 days of starting antibiotics
- • You also have unusual vaginal discharge, itching or soreness, or bleeding between periods
If you are ever worried and unsure, ask us or call 111. Trust your instincts — it is always better to ask.
This guide is general information written by the PRX Pharmacy team. It does not replace advice from a pharmacist or doctor who knows your medical history.
Last updated 24 September 2026. Clinically reviewed by Milan Patel, Pharmacist on 24 September 2026.
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