The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. Here's an overview of its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
There are several factors that can cause urethritis, including:
Urethritis is most commonly caused by bacterial infections, particularly sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea and chlamydia.
Ureteritis can also be caused by viruses such as herpes simplex virus (HSV) or human papillomavirus (HPV).
Urethritis may also be caused by non-infectious causes, such as irritation from chemicals, medications, or urinary tract instruments.
The following symptoms may be associated with urethritis:
A burning or stinging sensation during urination.
The need to urinate more frequently than usual.
A discharge from the urethra may be clear, white, yellow, or greenish.
Urgency: A sudden and strong urge to urinate.
A urethral opening that is painful, itchy, or irritated.
Urethritis can be diagnosed by:
A healthcare provider will ask the patient about their symptoms, sexual history, and any recent exposure to potential sources of infection.
A genital examination may be performed to assess for inflammation or discharge from the urethra.
Tests in the laboratory may be performed to detect the presence of bacteria or other infectious agents in the urine, such as nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) or urine cultures.
In cases of suspected sexually transmitted infections, swabs can be taken from the urethra.
There are several treatment options for urethritis, including:
It is important to note that antibiotic therapy is the mainstay of treatment for bacterial urethritis. The type of antibiotic prescribed depends on the underlying cause of the infection.
In cases of herpes simplex virus-induced urethritis, antiviral medications may be prescribed.
Pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may be prescribed to relieve discomfort during urination.
Reduce symptoms and promote healing by avoiding potential irritants such as certain soaps, perfumes, and lubricants.
During treatment, abstinence from sexual activity or barrier protection such as condoms can help prevent urethritis from spreading to sexual partners.
The following steps can be taken to prevent urethritis:
Utilizing condoms correctly and consistently can help reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections that can cause urethritis.
Screening regularly for sexually transmitted infections, particularly for those at increased risk, can help detect urethritis early and prevent complications.
Ureteritis caused by irritation or infection can be prevented by maintaining good hygiene practices, such as washing the genital area with mild soap and water.
