Pharmacy First condition
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
An uncomplicated lower urinary tract infection in women.
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection of the bladder and urinary system. Through NHS Pharmacy First, our pharmacist in Timperley can assess an uncomplicated UTI in women aged 16 to 64 without a GP appointment.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms include a burning or stinging feeling when passing urine, needing to pass urine more often or more urgently, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and discomfort low in the tummy. Symptoms can range from mild to very uncomfortable.
Who this pathway is for
This NHS pathway is specifically for women aged 16 to 64 with an uncomplicated lower UTI. It is not suitable if you are pregnant, use a urinary catheter, have frequently recurring UTIs, or have warning features such as fever, pain in the back or side, or blood in the urine — these need a GP assessment, and the pharmacist will refer you appropriately.
What the pharmacist can do
The pharmacist asks about your symptoms and history and assesses them against the NHS pathway. Note that the pharmacist does not routinely test a urine sample for this service — the assessment is based on your symptoms. Where it is clinically appropriate, NHS treatment can be supplied directly; otherwise you will be advised on self-care or referred.
Self-care
Drinking enough fluids and using simple pain relief can help while symptoms settle. The pharmacist will explain what to expect and what would mean you should seek further help.
When to see a GP
Seek a GP or urgent assessment if you have a high temperature, pain in your back or side, blood in your urine, symptoms that do not improve, or if you are pregnant or use a catheter.
Symptoms
Burning or stinging when passing urine, needing to go more often or urgently, and lower tummy discomfort.
What the pharmacist can do
The pharmacist assesses your symptoms against the NHS pathway, gives advice, and where appropriate supplies NHS treatment without a GP appointment.
When to see a GP or seek urgent help
Not for catheter users, pregnancy, recurrent UTIs, or if there is fever, back pain or blood in the urine — these need a GP. The pharmacist will refer you if needed.