UTI Treatment: Fast Relief Without a GP Appointment

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are painful, disruptive, and incredibly common—especially among women. The burning sensation, constant urge to urinate, and discomfort can make daily life miserable.

The good news? Through the NHS Pharmacy First service, you can get UTI treatment directly from Pulteney Pharmacy—no GP appointment needed.

What is a UTI?

A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria enter the urinary system, causing infection and inflammation. Most UTIs affect the bladder (cystitis), but they can spread to the kidneys if left untreated.

Common UTI Symptoms

Burning or stinging when you urinate
Needing to urinate more frequently
Urgent need to urinate
Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine
Blood in urine
Lower abdominal or back pain
Feeling generally unwell

Who Gets UTIs?

While anyone can develop a UTI, they're far more common in women due to anatomy. Risk factors include:

Sexual activity
Using certain contraceptives (diaphragms, spermicides)
Menopause
Pregnancy
Diabetes
Kidney stones
Urinary catheter use
Weakened immune system

Pharmacy First: Treatment Without the Wait

Under the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, our pharmacists can assess and treat uncomplicated UTIs in women aged 16-64. This means:

✔ No GP appointment needed
✔ Same-day treatment
✔ Free on the NHS
✔ Professional consultation

What Happens During Your Consultation?

Private consultation with our pharmacist
Assessment of your symptoms and medical history
Urine dipstick test if appropriate
Antibiotic prescription if suitable
Self-care advice for symptom relief

The whole process typically takes 10-15 minutes.

When We'll Refer to Your GP

Some situations require GP assessment:

Men with UTI symptoms
Children under 16
Pregnant women
Recurrent UTIs (3+ in a year)
Severe symptoms or fever
Blood in urine
Symptoms lasting more than 7 days
Certain medical conditions

Self-Care Tips for UTI Relief

While antibiotics work to clear the infection, these tips can ease discomfort:

Drink plenty of water to flush bacteria
Take paracetamol for pain
Use a hot water bottle on your tummy or back
Avoid alcohol and caffeine
Rest when you can

Preventing Future UTIs

Wipe front to back
Urinate after sexual activity
Stay well hydrated
Don't hold in urine
Wear cotton underwear
Consider cranberry supplements (evidence is mixed but may help some people)

Don't Suffer in Silence

UTIs are common and nothing to be embarrassed about. Left untreated, they can worsen and potentially spread to your kidneys.

If you're experiencing UTI symptoms, visit Pulteney Pharmacy today. Our trained pharmacists are here to help you feel better, fast.

📞 01225 466454 | 📍 35 Great Pulteney Street, Bath

Walk in for UTI treatment

Fast, free, and confidential—that's Pharmacy First.