Uretrit – Infection of the urethra

What is baby?

Urethritis is inflammation of the, infection or irritation of the urethra. Urethra – muscular tube, on which the urine from the bladder out of the body.

Causes of urethritis

Cause of urethritis are typically bacteria or viruses, including:

• Organisms, that cause bladder infection or kidney disease;
• Organisms, that cause disease, sexually transmitted (STD);
• Other bacteria.

Risk factors for urethritis

Urethritis is more common in women. Other factors, that can increase the likelihood of urethritis include:

• Having multiple sexual partners;
• Modified or new sexual partners;
• Unprotected sex (without using a condom);
• The presence of STD in the past;
• Bacterial infections of other parts of the urinary tract (Bladder, kidney, Prostate);
• Medication, which reduce resistance to bacterial infection;
• The presence of catheters or tubes, placed in the bladder;
• The use of spermicides.

Symptoms of urethritis

Patients with urethritis may have no symptoms, This is especially true for women. About half of men, infected with chlamydia have no symptoms.

Urethritis may have the following symptoms:

• Pain and/or burning during urination;
• Blood in the urine;
• An increase in the frequency and urgency of urination;
• Itch, swelling and/or pain in the groin area;
• Pain during sex.

Symptoms of urethritis, specific for men may include:

• Discharge from the penis;
• Blood in the semen;
• Pain during ejaculation;
• Swollen and/or sensitive testicles.

Untreated urethritis can spread and cause infection in other parts of the urinary tract, such as bladder, ureters, or kidney.

Diagnosis of urethritis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical examination. It will also include a pelvic examination. Urethritis is usually diagnosed based on symptoms. Tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of microorganism, causing disease, may include:

• Smear from the surface of the urethra for microscopic examination or culture;
• Blood and urine tests;
• Special tests for gonorrhoea, Chlamydia or the presence of other STDs.

Treatment of urethritis

Urethritis is usually treated with medication. The type of treatment will depend on the causes of infections of the urethra:

• Antibiotics are assigned, If urethritis caused by bacteria;
• Antivirals – assigned for the treatment of urethritis, caused by certain types of viruses.

For a period of not less than 7 days after start of treatment it is recommended to refrain from sexual activity.

If urethritis caused by STDS, all sex partners should be tested and, if necessary, undergo a course of treatment.

Prevention of urethritis

To reduce the likelihood of urethritis:

• Practice Safe Sex, using condoms and barrier methods of contraception;
• Immediately after intercourse it is recommended to go to the toilet and urinate;
• Sexual partners, who are infected with an STD or you suspect the presence of STDS, must be examined and an appropriate course of treatment;
• You regularly drink plenty of fluids.