Urethral SyndromeEn Español (Spanish Version)
Urethral syndrome is a term used to describe symptoms of urethritis , without any evidence of bacterial or viral infection as a cause. Urethritis is an inflammation, infection, or irritation of the urethra. It is most commonly seen in women. The urethra is the tube that carries urine out of the body from the bladder.
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Because there is no evidence of infection, the cause of urethral syndrome is often difficult to pinpoint. Possible causes include:
- Undetected bacterial or viral infection of the urethra
- Irritation of the urethra, caused by:
Specifically in women, irritation of the urethra may be caused by:
- Feminine hygiene sprays or douches
- Sanitary napkins
- Contraceptive gels
- Structural problems, such as narrowing of the urethra
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
Risk factors include:
The symptoms of urethral syndrome are similar to those of urethritis. Symptoms may include:
- Pain and/or burning while urinating
- Difficulty urinating (especially after intercourse)
Increase in urinary:
- Blood in the urine
- Swelling and/or tenderness in the groin
- Pain during intercourse
- Discharge from penis
- Blood in semen
- Pain during ejaculation
- Swollen and/or tender testicles
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam including a pelvic exam. Urethral syndrome is usually diagnosed when symptoms of urethritis are present, but there is no evidence of an infection as the cause.
Tests may include:
- Urine tests or urethral swab tests for lab study
- Tests for sexually transmitted diseases
- Cystoscopy and/or urethroscopy—use of a thin, lighted tube to examine the inside of the bladder and/or urethra; this investigation is usually required when symptoms persist and/or do not respond to simple treatments.
- Pelvic ultrasound—to look at the bladder and the reproductive system
Treatment may include:
- Antibiotics—given if your doctor thinks urethral syndrome may be due to an undetected infection
- Phenazopyridine—may be given by your doctor to ease discomfort while urinating
- Intraurethral lidocaine jelly
- Antispasmodics to decrease bladder muscle spasm (eg, oxybutynin [Ditropan])
- Antidepressants such as a tricyclic antidepressant to relieve pain
- Alpha-blocking drugs such as doxazosin (Cardura) to relax smooth muscle tone
Avoidance of Irritants
Avoid irritants that may cause urethral syndrome. Then, wait and see if your condition improves.
Surgery may be done in cases where narrowing of the urethra is thought to be causing the urethral syndrome.
Measures that may help prevent urethral syndrome include:
Avoiding the use of:
- Spermicidal jellies
- Bubble baths
- Harsh soaps
- Scents or perfumes
- Feminine hygiene sprays and douches
- Urinary irritant foods and beverages
- Practicing safe sex, including using condoms
- Urinating immediately after having sexual intercourse
- Making sure sexually-transmitted diseases are treated quickly and completely for you and your partner
- Regularly drinking plenty of fluids
National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases
US National Library of Medicine
The Kidney Foundation of Canada: British Columbia Branch
The Kidney Foundation of Canada: Northern Alberta and the Territories Branch
Costantine E, Zucchi A, Del Zingaro M, Mearini L. Treatment of urethral syndrome: a prospective randomized study with Nd: YAG laser. Urol Int . 2006;76:134-138.
Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy . Simon and Schuster, Inc; 2001.
Terris MK. Urethral syndrome. eMedicine website. Available at: http://www.emedicine.com/ .
US National Library of Medicine website. Available at: http://www.nlm.nih.gov .
Last reviewed January 2008 by Adrienne Carmack, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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