Can You Have Sex with Urethritis? Impact on Pregnancy Explained

Is it safe to have sexual intercourse with urethritis?

Hello Dr.
Huang: I was diagnosed with urethritis on April 13, and I am experiencing blood in my urine.
I have already consulted a doctor and am currently on medication.
Can I engage in sexual intercourse during this period? If so, should I use a condom? I am also trying to conceive; will urethritis have any impact on that? Thank you.

Connie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/15

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
I was diagnosed with urethritis on April 13, and I have blood in my urine.
I have seen a doctor and am currently taking medication.
Can I have intercourse during this period? Ans: Yes, you can have intercourse.
Taking the medication 30 minutes before intercourse can help prevent reinfection.

2.
Do I need to use a condom? Ans: No, you do not need to.
3.
I want to get pregnant; will urethritis affect this? Ans: No, it will not.

Reply Date: 2017/04/15

More Info

Urethritis, an inflammation of the urethra, can be caused by various factors, including infections. When dealing with urethritis, especially if you are considering pregnancy, it is essential to understand the implications of sexual activity during this time.

Firstly, it is generally possible to have sexual intercourse while being treated for urethritis, but there are several factors to consider. If you are experiencing symptoms such as pain during urination or bleeding, it may be uncomfortable to engage in sexual activity. Additionally, if the urethritis is caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI), there is a risk of transmitting the infection to your partner. Therefore, using protection, such as condoms, is advisable to prevent any potential transmission of infections and to reduce the risk of further irritation or complications.

Regarding the impact of urethritis on pregnancy, it is crucial to note that while urethritis itself may not directly affect your ability to conceive, the underlying causes of the condition can have implications. For instance, if the urethritis is due to an STI, it could lead to complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can affect fertility and increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy. Therefore, addressing the underlying cause of urethritis is vital for both your health and your fertility.

If you are actively trying to conceive, it is essential to communicate with your healthcare provider about your condition. They can provide guidance on the best course of action, including whether it is safe to engage in sexual activity during treatment and how to manage your symptoms effectively. Additionally, they can monitor your condition to ensure that it does not lead to further complications that could affect your fertility or pregnancy.

In summary, while you can have sex during treatment for urethritis, it is essential to consider your comfort level, the potential for infection transmission, and the underlying causes of your condition. Using condoms is a good practice to protect both you and your partner. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that you are taking the necessary steps to maintain your reproductive health.

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