What causes cystitis?

In most cases, cystitis is due to a bacterial infection. The most common causative agent is E. coli, a bacterium that normally inhabits the gastrointestinal tract. Women are particularly susceptible to cystitis because of the short length of the female urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder. This promotes the transmission of bacteria from the skin and genitals to the internal area. The risk of cystitis is increased in those who have a narrowed urethra due to past infections, or an obstruction in the ureter (the tube from the kidney to the bladder). Pressure on the female bladder (for example, during pregnancy, sexual intercourse, or from a diaphragm) also increases the risk of cystitis. Men who have an enlarged prostate gland also are more susceptible to developing the condition. I hope this helps you. And good luck.