Young female bending over and holding her abdomen in pain
Bladder infection

Not every bladder infec­tion needs 
an antibiotic

In only a few steps, find out why an antibiotic is not always necessary to treat a bladder infection and why it can even lead to more problems.

To the self test
Self test

Do I need an antibiotic?

If you think you might have a bladder infection, answer the questions below. 
You will find out whether you rather do or do not need an antibiotic.

Question 1 / 10

Do you have a fever and / or flank pain?
Question 2 / 10

Do you suffer from a bladder infection more than twice a year?
Question 3 / 10

Do you have an impaired kidney function?
Question 4 / 10

Do you have any known urinary tract issues (for example a malformation)?
Question 5 / 10

Do you have an indwelling urinary catheter?
Question 6 / 10

Do you suffer from diabetes and / or an immune deficiency?
Question 7 / 10

Are you scheduled to undergo an urological or gynecological procedure?
Question 8 / 10

Were you hospitalized in the past 3 months?
Question 9 / 10

Do you have male genital organs?
Question 10 / 10

Are you pregnant?
Portrait of an older female primary care provider
Made it
Recommendation on how to move forward

You answered all questions with «no». It is therefore very likely that you do not need an antibiotic and can observe the course of your symptoms over the next 2 days. It is quite possible that your symptoms will lessen and eventually disappear. Make sure to drink enough fluids (about 1.5 - 2 liters of water per day). Consult your primary care provider if you develop a fever (38.3°C or higher) or flank pain, if your condition worsens, or if the symptoms do not improve. Here, you can find out why this is the recommendation.

More information
Portrait of an older female primary care provider
Made it
Recommendation on how to move forward

You answered at least one question with «yes». It is therefore recommended that you consult your primary care provider. They will take your history, examine you, and potentially order further tests. Afterwards, you will have the opportunity to discuss further steps and whether antibiotics would be appropriate or not. Here, you can find out why this is the case.

More information
Made it
Recommendation on how to move forward

To receive a personalized result, you must answer at least one question.

Is an antibiotic necessary
for every bladder infection?

Get informed about bladder infections and find out why an antibiotic is not always necessary.

Learn more now