Overview
Urethritis is inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. It is usually caused by a sexually transmitted infection.
When to get urgent help
Seek prompt help for testicular pain or fever.
Causes and risk factors
Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, Mycoplasma genitalium and trichomonas.
How it develops (pathophysiology)
Bacteria infect the lining of the urethra, triggering inflammation and discharge of white blood cells.
Signs and symptoms
Discharge from the penis, burning when passing urine and itching; women may have few symptoms.
How it is diagnosed
Urine tests and swabs at a sexual health clinic.
Possible complications
Epididymitis, reactive arthritis and infertility.
Medicines
Antibiotics targeted to the cause.
Other treatments
Avoiding sex until treatment is complete and partner testing.
Living with it and prevention
Condoms and regular testing.
Outlook
Curable with treatment.
