Uncomplicated cystitis (bladder infection) is a specific type of urinary tract infection (UTI), which is limited to the bladder, caused by typical bacteria, and occurs in those with internal reproductive organs who have no structural or functional urinary tract abnormalities (e.g., catheter, impaired kidney function, spinal cord injury).
These are relatively low-risk, recurring infections and are often self-diagnosed. Treatment is generally through oral antibiotics.
The condition is considered "complicated" if the client is under 16 years of age, male, pregnant, breastfeeding an infant under one month of age, or has a medical condition that may affect the type of bacteria causing the infection (e.g., uncontrolled diabetes, immunocompromised). These clients would be referred to their primary care provider (e.g., family doctor, nurse practitioner, walk-in clinic) for diagnosis and care.