Urethra Inflammation Affects the Channel That Carries Urine Out: Unprotected Sexual Intercourse and Catheter Use Are Modes of Transmission. Symptoms Include Itching, Pain, and Burning Sensation While Urinating. Learn Other Signs and Treatments.
Urethra inflammation is a condition that affects the urethra, the channel that transports urine to the bladder and then out of the body. It can be transmitted through sexual contact or prolonged catheter use.
The most common symptoms are genital itching, increased urinary frequency, pain when urinating, and the presence of blood in the urine. Find out how the diagnosis is made and how to treat it.
What Is Urethra Inflammation and Why Does It Occur?
Urethra inflammation, also known as urethritis, is a urinary tract infection that compromises the function of the urethra, the channel that allows urine and semen to leave the body. Learn more on the male urethra.
There are two types of urethra inflammation:
- Gonococcal urethritis: caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the same that transmits gonorrhea;
- Non-gonococcal urethritis: caused by the bacterium that transmits chlamydia, Chlamydia trachomatis, and by other microorganisms, such as Trichomonas vaginalis, Herpes simplex virus, and Candida SP.
The most common mode of transmission is unprotected sexual intercourse. Prolonged use of urinary catheters, injuries, and irritating products in the genital area can also inflame the urethra.
Main Symptoms to Watch Out For
Because the urethra is the channel that carries urine out of the human body, signs of urethra inflammation often show up as urinary symptoms. Check it out:
- Itching in the genital area;
- Frequent urge to urinate;
- Blood in the urine;
- Swollen lymph nodes in the groin;
- Pain when urinating, with or without burning sensation;
- White or yellowish-green discharge, pus, or blood in the urethra.
However, urethra inflammation in men can also cause discomfort in the penis and affect intimate life. See below:
- Sensitivity or swelling in the penis;
- Blisters or sores on the genital area;
- Discomfort or even swelling in the testicles;
- Pain during sexual intercourse;
- Painful ejaculation;
- Blood in the semen;
- Urethral bleeding, usually after sexual contact.
How Do You Know If the Urethra Is Inflamed?
Urethra inflammation is confirmed through urine tests to check if the patient has sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. The doctor also orders samples of discharge for analysis.
Most Common Causes of Urethral Inflammation
Unprotected sex is the most common cause of urethra inflammation. Without the barrier of a condom, the urethra becomes more exposed to bacteria and fungi responsible for sexually transmitted infections. Other causes include:
- Prolonged or improper use of urinary catheters;
- Multiple sexual partners;
- Urethral injuries from accidents or insertion of foreign objects;
- Using products with irritating ingredients such as soaps, perfumes, and deodorants.
How Is the Medical Diagnosis Made?
Diagnosis of urethritis is made by a urologist, as this specialist deals with issues related to the urethra, ureters, bladder, and kidneys. Remember that women with urinary problems should also seek guidance from this professional.
The inflammation in the urethra is confirmed through urine test results and discharge analysis.
Recommended Treatments to Relieve Symptoms
Treatment for urethra inflammation involves antibiotics.
Therapy is based on antibiotics, depending on the cause of urethritis. The specific regimen and medications should be determined by a urologist after clinical evaluation.
Regarding how to treat urethra inflammation, catheter users also receive prescriptions for products to reduce friction, use loose-fitting clothing, and guidance on replacing or discontinuing use.
How Long Does It Take for the Urethra to Heal?
Recovery from urethra inflammation depends on the severity and how well the patient responds to treatment. Therefore, it is not possible to determine how long it will take for the urethra to heal.
What Are the Risks of Urethritis?
Untreated urethritis can progress to stricture, a narrowing of the urethra that leads to more serious infections in the bladder and kidneys.
Specifically, urethritis in men can harm the testicles and pose a risk of infertility. In women, untreated urethra inflammation can cause uterine problems.
Prevention Tips to Avoid New Infections
Check out how to prevent urethra inflammation:
- Drink water every day;
- Practice daily intimate hygiene with water and neutral soap;
- Do not use oils, deodorants, or perfumes on the genital area;
- Prefer cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing;
- Use condoms during sexual intercourse;
- Urinate and shower after sexual activity;
- Regular check-ups with the urologist.
When Should You See a Urologist?
You should consult a urologist if you experience urinary symptoms such as painful urination, discharge, or discomfort during intercourse or ejaculation.
Urethra inflammation can lead to serious complications if not treated properly. The good news is that urethra inflammation may be related to daily habits, and in many cases, you can reduce risks with simple everyday care. Join Dr. Paulo’s WhatsApp group to receive the best health tips on your phone.
