Published on Oct 10, 2023 | 10:12 AM
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Urethritis is inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. It can affect people of any sex and is commonly associated with sexually transmitted infections (STIs), although non-infectious causes are also possible.
Urethritis is not a diagnosis on its own but a clinical condition with multiple potential causes, which makes accurate testing and treatment important. When left untreated, it can lead to ongoing discomfort, complications, and transmission to sexual partners.
Symptoms can vary depending on the cause and may be mild or severe. Some people experience symptoms shortly after exposure, while others may have delayed or minimal symptoms.
Common symptoms include:
Burning or pain during urination
Urethral irritation or itching
Discharge from the urethra
Increased urge to urinate
In men, discharge may be more noticeable. In women, symptoms may overlap with bladder or vaginal conditions, making diagnosis more challenging.
Urethritis is most often caused by sexually transmitted bacteria, but it can also result from non-infectious factors.
Common infectious causes include Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Mycoplasma genitalium. Viral infections and other bacteria may also contribute.
Non-infectious causes include chemical irritation from soaps or spermicides, physical irritation, or recent urinary catheter use.
Urethritis is sometimes classified based on cause.
Gonococcal urethritis is caused by gonorrhea.
Non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) includes cases caused by chlamydia, Mycoplasma genitalium, and other organisms.
Identifying the type of urethritis helps guide effective treatment.
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, sexual history, and laboratory testing.
Testing may include urine testing and swabs to identify specific bacteria. Because symptoms overlap with other STIs, comprehensive testing is often recommended to ensure appropriate treatment.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause.
When urethritis is caused by bacteria, prescription antibiotics are used. Due to increasing antibiotic resistance, treatment should follow current clinical guidelines, and completing the full course of medication is essential.
Sexual partners should also be evaluated and treated when indicated. Sexual activity should be avoided until treatment is complete and symptoms have resolved.
Untreated urethritis can lead to persistent symptoms, spread of infection, and complications.
Possible complications include:
Epididymitis in men
Pelvic inflammatory disease in women
Chronic pelvic or genital pain
Increased risk of transmitting STIs
Early treatment reduces these risks and helps prevent reinfection.
Prevention strategies include consistent condom use, routine STI testing, completing all prescribed antibiotics, and ensuring that sexual partners receive appropriate treatment.
Avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use also helps reduce resistance.
Call-On-Doc offers confidential, convenient care for urethritis through telehealth.
With a virtual visit, you can discuss symptoms with a licensed provider, receive appropriate testing guidance, and get treatment recommendations — without the need for an in-person clinic visit.
Healthcare that fits your life — not your calendar.
English graduate and Call-On-Doc’s medical resource guide, Wayne C. Hahne is an experienced and passionate medical education content expert. Through diligent research, provider interviews and utilizing the industry's leading resources for wellness information, it is Mr. Hahne’s personal mission to educate the general public on medical conditions with in-depth and easy-to-understand written guides. updated 1/26/2026 Shelly House, FNP, is a Family Nurse Practitioner and Call-On-Doc’s trusted medical education voice. With extensive experience in telehealth and patient-centered care, Ms. House is dedicated to making complex health topics simple and accessible. Through evidence-based content, provider collaboration, and a passion for empowering patients, her mission is to break down barriers to healthcare by delivering clear, compassionate, and practical medical guidance.
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