Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) in Women

When to book UTI treatment

Book a Pharmacy First UTI consultation if you have:

• Pain or burning when urinating
• Needing to urinate more often than usual
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
• Lower abdominal pain or pressure
• An urge to urinate even after emptying your bladder

Seek medical advice urgently if you develop a fever, chills or back pain, feel nauseous or unwell, your symptoms worsen or do not improve after treatment, or you get frequent or recurring UTIs. These can point to a more serious infection.

Who can use the Pharmacy First UTI service?

The NHS Pharmacy First service lets community pharmacists assess and treat uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women aged 16 to 64 without a GP appointment. You may be eligible if you:

• Are a woman aged 16 to 64
• Have symptoms of a lower urinary tract infection
• Are not pregnant
• Do not have symptoms suggesting a more serious infection

Your pharmacist will assess your symptoms and confirm whether treatment through the Pharmacy First pathway is appropriate. Pharmacies can often supply the same medicines for a UTI as a GP would.

What is a UTI?

A urinary tract infection happens when bacteria enter the urinary system and infect the bladder or urethra. UTIs are particularly common in women because bacteria can reach the urinary tract more easily.

Self-care advice

• Drink plenty of water to help flush bacteria from the bladder
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can irritate the bladder
• Use pain relief if your pharmacist recommends it
• Empty your bladder regularly

Find UTI treatment near you

Highly trained pharmacists, fast access through NHS Pharmacy First and private consultation rooms for confidential care. Use the postcode search above to find your nearest participating Allied Pharmacy in England.