Urethral Discharge: Causes and Concerns for Men

Urethral discharge

Dear Doctor,
I have a question.
For the past year, I have noticed that every morning when I wake up, my underwear has a small wet and sticky patch.
I have confirmed that this fluid is coming from my urethra; it is colorless and can stretch when dabbed with tissue, resembling the clear fluid that is released during an erection.
Currently, I do not have any other symptoms, and there is no pain during urination or ejaculation.
I have also practiced abstinence for two weeks, but there seems to be no improvement.
Could you please advise me on what might be causing this issue? Is it normal for us to have such secretions? Thank you.

Mr. Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/19

Dr. Cai Zhuorong reply Urology

"It is normal for us to have secretions." Correct! However, we still recommend that you undergo further examination.

Reply Date: 2019/06/19

More Info

Urethral discharge in men can be a concerning symptom, and understanding its causes is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Based on your description, the discharge you are experiencing is a clear, sticky fluid that appears in your underwear each morning. This type of discharge can be caused by several factors, and it’s important to consider both normal physiological processes and potential pathological conditions.

Firstly, it’s worth noting that some degree of urethral discharge can be normal. The male reproductive system produces pre-ejaculatory fluid, also known as pre-cum, which is secreted by the Cowper's glands (bulbourethral glands). This fluid serves to lubricate the urethra and neutralize acidity in the urethra before ejaculation. It is typically clear and can have a viscous consistency, which may explain the sticky nature of the discharge you are observing.

However, if the discharge is persistent and occurs daily, it may indicate an underlying issue. Here are some potential causes to consider:
1. Infection: One of the most common causes of urethral discharge is a sexually transmitted infection (STI), such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. These infections can lead to urethritis, which is inflammation of the urethra. While you mentioned that you do not have pain during urination or ejaculation, some STIs can present with minimal symptoms, especially in the early stages.

2. Non-infectious Urethritis: This condition can occur due to irritation from chemicals, soaps, or other irritants. It can also be a result of trauma or injury to the urethra.

3. Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate gland can lead to various urinary symptoms, including discharge. Prostatitis can be acute or chronic and may not always present with pain.

4. Other Conditions: Conditions such as urethral strictures or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can also lead to abnormal discharge.
Given that you have not experienced any pain and have not noticed any other symptoms, it is possible that what you are experiencing is a normal physiological discharge. However, since it has been persistent for a year, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.
Here are some steps you can take:
1. Consult a Urologist: A urologist specializes in male reproductive health and urinary tract issues. They can perform a physical examination and may recommend tests such as urinalysis, urethral swabs, or imaging studies to rule out infections or other underlying conditions.

2. Discuss Sexual History: Be open about your sexual history with your healthcare provider, as this can help in assessing the risk of STIs.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in the discharge, such as color, consistency, or the onset of any new symptoms (e.g., pain, itching, or changes in urination).

4. Avoid Irritants: If you suspect that soaps, lotions, or other products may be causing irritation, consider eliminating them from your routine to see if there is any improvement.

In conclusion, while some urethral discharge can be normal, persistent or unusual discharge warrants further investigation to rule out infections or other medical conditions. Seeking professional medical advice is the best course of action to ensure your health and peace of mind.

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