Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection that affects the bladder or urinary system. It is usually caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract.

UTIs are particularly common in women and can cause discomfort, pain, and frequent urination.

What is Pharmacy First?

Pharmacy First is an NHS service that allows you to access treatment for common conditions directly from a community pharmacy without needing a GP appointment.

At our pharmacy, our trained pharmacists can assess your symptoms in a private consultation and provide treatment where appropriate, or refer you for further care if needed.

This service helps you get faster access to treatment and reduces pressure on GP surgeries and urgent care services.

Who can use this service?

• Women aged 16 to 64 years
• Patients with symptoms of an uncomplicated urinary tract infection
• Patients who do not require urgent hospital treatment

Common symptoms of a UTI

• Burning or stinging when urinating
• Needing to urinate more often than usual
• Sudden urges to urinate
• Lower abdominal discomfort or pressure
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
• Feeling generally unwell or uncomfortable

How Pharmacy First treatment works

1. Visit us at the pharmacy (no appointment needed)
2. Speak to a trained pharmacist in a private consultation room
3. Your symptoms are assessed clinically
4. Treatment is provided if appropriate
5. If needed, we will refer you to a GP or urgent care service

Do UTIs need antibiotics?

Many uncomplicated urinary tract infections require antibiotic treatment to clear the infection and relieve symptoms.

Our pharmacists can assess your symptoms and provide treatment where appropriate under NHS Pharmacy First guidelines.

When to seek urgent medical help

• Fever, chills, or shivering
• Pain in the back or sides
• Blood in the urine
• Nausea or vomiting
• Symptoms worsening rapidly
• Symptoms not improving after treatment

How to help prevent UTIs

• Drink plenty of water
• Do not hold urine for long periods
• Maintain good personal hygiene
• Urinate after sexual activity where possible
• Avoid dehydration

Benefits of Pharmacy First

• No GP appointment required
• Fast NHS access to treatment
• Private consultation with our pharmacist
• Clinical assessment and treatment where appropriate
• Convenient local service

Book online or visit us today

You can visit us at the pharmacy for a same-day assessment, or book an appointment online for a convenient time.

Our pharmacists can assess UTI symptoms, provide treatment where appropriate, and advise on symptom management and recovery.

If you are unsure, contact us and we can advise you before you visit.