Frequent Urination with Pain: Possible Causes

Only urinating a small amount?

Hello, doctor: When I go to the bathroom, after I finish urinating, I feel the urge to urinate again, but the second time I only pass a small amount.
Additionally, the urethral opening of the glans is painful.
What could be the reason for this? Is it a urinary tract infection?

Jia De, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/26

Dr. Lin Wenxu reply Urology

Please come to the outpatient clinic for further examination to clarify the issue and identify potential causes.

Reply Date: 2017/07/26

More Info

Frequent urination accompanied by pain, particularly at the urethral opening, can be indicative of several underlying conditions. Based on your description, it is essential to consider a few potential causes that could be contributing to your symptoms.

1. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): One of the most common causes of frequent urination and pain during urination is a urinary tract infection. UTIs can cause inflammation and irritation of the bladder and urethra, leading to a burning sensation, urgency, and frequent urges to urinate, often with little urine produced. If you are experiencing additional symptoms such as fever, chills, or back pain, it would be prudent to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

2. Urethritis: This condition refers to inflammation of the urethra, which can be caused by infections (bacterial or viral) or irritants. Symptoms typically include pain during urination, frequent urges to urinate, and sometimes discharge from the urethra. Urethritis can be sexually transmitted, so it’s important to consider your sexual health history.

3. Prostatitis: In males, inflammation of the prostate gland (prostatitis) can lead to similar symptoms, including painful urination, frequent urination, and discomfort in the pelvic area. Prostatitis can be acute or chronic and may require specific treatment depending on the underlying cause.

4. Bladder Irritation: Conditions such as interstitial cystitis or bladder irritation due to certain foods, beverages, or medications can lead to increased urinary frequency and discomfort. This type of irritation may not be due to an infection but rather due to inflammation of the bladder lining.

5. Kidney Stones: While less common, kidney stones can cause pain during urination, especially if they are located near the urethra or if they are causing a blockage. Symptoms may include severe pain in the back or side, blood in the urine, and frequent urges to urinate.

6. Other Considerations: Other potential causes could include sexually transmitted infections (STIs), certain medications, or even psychological factors such as anxiety, which can sometimes manifest as physical symptoms.

Given your symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend a urinalysis to check for signs of infection, blood, or other abnormalities. Depending on the findings, further imaging studies or referrals to specialists may be necessary.

In the meantime, it is advisable to stay hydrated but avoid irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, which can exacerbate urinary symptoms. If you experience worsening pain, fever, or any other concerning symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, frequent urination with pain can stem from various causes, including UTIs, urethritis, prostatitis, bladder irritation, or kidney stones. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare provider is essential to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment.

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