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Urethritis
Moderate
Urethritis is inflammation and irritation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the body. It may cause burning or pain during urination, urinary urgency or frequency, discharge, itching, or discomfort around the genital area. Urethritis can affect both men and women and may be caused by infections or by noninfectious irritation. Identifying the cause is important because untreated infectious urethritis can lead to complications and may be transmitted to sexual partners.
Body System
Kidneys & Urinary Tract
When to Seek Medical Attention
Urethritis should be medically assessed because infections can require specific treatment and may cause complications if untreated. Seek prompt care for painful urination, discharge, pelvic or genital pain, fever, blood in the urine, or worsening symptoms. Emergency assessment is needed for severe systemic illness, severe pain, or rapidly worsening symptoms.
Symptoms
3
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
4
Overview
Urethritis is inflammation and irritation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the body. It may cause burning or pain during urination, urinary urgency or frequency, discharge, itching, or discomfort around the genital area. Urethritis can affect both men and women and may be caused by infections or by noninfectious irritation. Identifying the cause is important because untreated infectious urethritis can lead to complications and may be transmitted to sexual partners.
Symptoms 3
Frequent Urination
Premature Ejaculation
Urgent Urination
Causes 2
Urethritis can be caused by bacteria or viruses. Bacterial causes include organisms associated with urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydia and gonorrhea. Viral causes can include herpes simplex virus and cytomegalovirus. Urethral injury and irritation from certain chemical products, such as some spermicides or contraceptive preparations, can also cause inflammation. In some cases, no specific cause is identified.
Hormonal Imbalance
Infection
Risk Factors
Risk factors include a history of sexually transmitted infections, having multiple sexual partners, and sexual activity that increases exposure to infectious organisms. Urethritis can also occur after irritation or injury to the urethra. Some infections may occur more frequently in particular age or sex groups. Previous urethritis or other genitourinary infections may also be relevant. Appropriate sexual health practices can reduce exposure to infectious causes.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis involves a medical history, physical examination, and testing to identify infection or another cause of inflammation. Depending on the symptoms, healthcare professionals may examine the genital and abdominal areas and assess for discharge or tenderness. Urinalysis and urine cultures may be performed, along with specific tests for gonorrhea, chlamydia, and other sexually transmitted infections. A urethral swab or additional investigations may be used when clinically appropriate.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Prevention of infectious urethritis includes reducing exposure to sexually transmitted infections through safer sexual practices, appropriate barrier protection, and testing when exposure or symptoms occur
Prompt evaluation of urinary or genital symptoms can help identify infections before complications develop
When urethritis is caused by an infection, appropriate evaluation and treatment of sexual partners may help prevent reinfection
Avoiding known chemical irritants or sources of urethral injury may help prevent noninfectious forms
Prevention Guidance
Prevention of infectious urethritis includes reducing exposure to sexually transmitted infections through safer sexual practices, appropriate barrier protection, and testing when exposure or symptoms occur. Prompt evaluation of urinary or genital symptoms can help identify infections before complications develop. When urethritis is caused by an infection, appropriate evaluation and treatment of sexual partners may help prevent reinfection. Avoiding known chemical irritants or sources of urethral injury may help prevent noninfectious forms.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 4
Recommended Foods
Fresh Fruits
Provide antioxidants and vitamins.
Vegetables
Support overall health.
Omega-3 Rich Foods
May help reduce inflammation.
Whole Grains
Provide fiber and nutrients.
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
May worsen irritation.
Processed Foods
May contribute to inflammation.
Excess Red Meat
May worsen symptoms in some individuals.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Urethritis is inflammation of the urethra.
Bacterial and sexually transmitted infections are common causes.
Burning urination and discharge may occur.
Urine tests and infection screening are used.
Safe sexual practices reduce risk.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.