Urethritis in Women

Urethritis occurs when the urethra is inflamed (red and swollen). This is the tube that passes urine from the bladder to outside the body. The urethra can become swollen and cause burning pain when you urinate. You may also have pain with sex. It can cause pain in the abdomen or pelvis. A urethral or vaginal discharge may also occur. Read on to learn more about urethritis and how it can be treated.

What Causes Urethritis?

An inflamed urethra can cause pain during urination.

Urethritis can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Such an infection can lead to conditions such as a urinary tract infection (UTI) or sexually transmitted disease (STD). Urethritis can also be caused by injury or sensitivity or allergy to chemicals in lotions and other products.

How Is Urethritis Diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will examine you and ask about your symptoms and health history. You may also have one or more of the following tests:

• Urine test to take samples of urine and have them checked for problems.

• Blood test to take a sample of blood and have it checked for problems.

• Vaginal culture to take a sample of vaginal discharge to have it tested for problems. A cotton swab is inserted into the vagina.

• Cystoscopy to allow the healthcare provider to look for problems in the urinary tract. The test uses a thin, flexible telescope called a cystoscope with a light and camera attached. The scope is inserted into the urethra.

• Ultrasound to allow the healthcare provider to see a detailed image of the inside of your pelvis.

How Is Urethritis Treated?

Treatment depends on the cause of urethritis. If it's due to a bacterial infection, antibiotics (medications that fight infection) will be given. Your healthcare provider can tell you more about your treatment options. In the meantime, your symptoms can be treated. To relieve pain and swelling, anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, may be given. Untreated, symptoms may get worse. It can also cause scar tissue to form in the urethra, causing it to narrow. And, it can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease.