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Urethritis

Also called Non-gonococcal urethritis, NGU, or Inflamed urethra

Urethritis is inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. It is often caused by a sexually transmitted infection, such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea, but sometimes no cause is found. It is more common in men, and some people have no symptoms.

Last updated Nov 9, 2026

What it is

It is usually treated with antibiotics. Avoid sex until you and your partners have finished treatment.

Recent sexual partners should be tested and treated too, so the infection is not passed back.

Common signs

  • Pain or burning when peeing
  • Needing to pee more often
  • Discharge from the penis
  • Itching or irritation at the tip of the penis
  • In women, sometimes no symptoms or unusual discharge

How it is usually diagnosed

  • Urine test
  • Swabs
  • Tests for sexually transmitted infections

Records worth keeping

Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:

  • Urine and swab results
  • Sexual health clinic notes
  • Treatment records

Questions to ask your doctor

  • What caused it?
  • Do my partners need treatment?
  • When is it safe to have sex again?

When to get help right away

Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:

  • Pain in the testicles, high temperature, or pain in the joints or eyes: get urgent help the same day

This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.

Sources

Related conditions

ChlamydiaOne of the most common sexually transmitted infections. It often has no symptoms and is easily treated with antibiotics.GonorrhoeaA sexually transmitted bacterial infection that often has no symptoms. It is treated with antibiotics.Urinary tract infections (UTIs)Infections of the bladder, urethra or kidneys. They are common, especially in women, and are often treated with antibiotics.TrichomoniasisA sexually transmitted infection caused by a tiny parasite. Many people have no symptoms, and it is easily treated with antibiotics.