Urethritis
Overview
Causes
This infection is often caused by bacteria. The bacteria cling to the opening of the urethra and begin to grow. The infection can then move up and spread into the tract. If the infection is not treated is can lead to a severe kidney infection.
The bacteria may normally live in the colon or vagina. It is able to pass or is moved to the opening of the urethra. The infection can also be spread from a partner during sexual activity. Less often a virus or fungus may cause the infection.
Risk Factors
Urethritis is more common in women. Other factors that may increase your chance of urethritis include:
- Being sexually active
- Use of spermicides
- Recent change in sexual partners
- Unprotected sex (without use of a condom)
- History of other STDs
- Having catheters or tubes placed in the bladder
- Medications that lower resistance to bacterial infection
SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
Some may not have symptoms. This is more common in women.
Urethritis may cause:
- Pain and/or burning while urinating
- Blood in the urine
-
Increase in urinary:
- Frequency
- Urgency
- Itching, swelling, and/or tenderness in the groin
- Pain during sex
Urethritis symptoms specific to men may include:
- Discharge from the penis
- Blood in the semen
- Pain during ejaculation
- Swollen and/or tender testicles
If left untreated, urethritis can spread. Other parts of the urinary tract can be affected. This may include infections of the bladder or kidneys.
Diagnosis
You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done with a pelvic exam. The doctor may know it is urethritis from the symptoms. A sample of urine will be checked for pus or blood. Further tests may be done to look for the exact type of germ that is causing the problem.
Treatments
Treatment
Urethritis is usually treated with medication. The type of medication will depend on the cause of the infection:
- Antibiotics—to treat urethritis caused by bacteria
- Antiviral drugs—to treat urethritis caused by some viruses
You may need to avoid sexual activity until treatment is done. UTIs can be passed between sexual partners. Ask your doctor if your partner should consider getting treatment as well.
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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