Recurrent cystitis: patients’ needs, expectations and contribution to developing an information leaflet – a qualitative study

OBJECTIVES: Recurring cystitis (RC) is a common complaint among women. It has a significant impact on patients’ quality of life. The physical discomfort and psychological distress related to RC are rarely addressed and women’s needs in terms of information and advice have not been sufficiently explored, particularly in France in spite of their frequent episodes of RC. This study aimed to assess women’s needs and expectations in view of developing a patient information leaflet to help them understand and better cope with their condition, thus offering them more autonomy and empowering them to self-manage whenever possible. METHOD: Qualitative study using recorded semistructured interviews with patients suffering from RC. SETTING: Interviews conducted with women suffering from RC in Corsica, France. PARTICIPANTS: 26 patients interviewed between January 2018 and April 2018. RESULTS: Knowledge of the condition was heterogeneous, but most women reported a major impact on daily life, a high level of anxiety, various management strategies and wished to avoid taking antibiotics, preferring alternative approaches. Patients reported a lack of understanding and sympathy on the part of physicians and society and wished for more autonomy with delayed/back-up prescriptions, a multidisciplinary follow-up and, most of all, appropriate information. CONCLUSION: The information leaflet should improve patients’ knowledge and capacity for self-care, contribute to standardise practice and limit inappropriate antibiotic use.