Urethral Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Q: Urethral Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello： 1) The inside of the glans is often slightly red. <br>If there are indeed abnormalities, there should be other symptoms. <br>Currently, it is advisable to drink more plain water and avoid irritating foods. <br>Avoid any irritants and observe for a few days. <br>It is very

Urinary system

Before going to bed, I suddenly experienced a sharp pain in the meatus.
I thought it might be due to my underwear rubbing against it, so I didn't think much of it.
However, the condition has persisted for a day.
When I lightly press around the glans and meatus, I feel a slight sharp pain.
Upon inspection, I didn't notice any significant abnormalities, but when I retract the meatus, there is a slight redness and swelling.
I have been using condoms during sexual intercourse, and I do not experience a burning sensation when urinating; the discomfort mainly occurs due to friction from my underwear.

Awei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/18

Dr. Liu Mingyue reply Urology

Hello: 1) The inside of the glans is often slightly red.
If there are indeed abnormalities, there should be other symptoms.
Currently, it is advisable to drink more plain water and avoid irritating foods.
Avoid any irritants and observe for a few days.
It is very likely that this is caused by sexual activity (please do not misunderstand as a sexually transmitted infection).
Resting for a few days should suffice, but if there is pain during urination, increased frequency of urination, or redness of the foreskin (not the glans), medical attention should be sought.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/02/18

More Info

Urethral pain can be a concerning symptom, and understanding its potential causes is essential for determining when to seek medical help. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a sudden onset of pain localized around the urethra, particularly at the glans (the tip of the penis). This pain, which you noted as a "stinging" sensation, could be attributed to several factors.

Possible Causes of Urethral Pain
1. Irritation or Friction: As you mentioned, the pain could be due to friction from your underwear. Tight or rough fabrics can irritate the sensitive skin around the urethra and glans, leading to discomfort. This is especially true if you have been wearing tight-fitting underwear or if the fabric is abrasive.

2. Infection: Urethral pain can also be a sign of an infection, such as urethritis, which is inflammation of the urethra often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other bacterial infections. Symptoms of urethritis can include pain during urination, discharge, and redness or swelling around the urethral opening.

3. Allergic Reaction: Sometimes, an allergic reaction to soaps, detergents, or even the material of the underwear can cause localized irritation and pain. If you have recently changed any products you use for personal hygiene or laundry, this could be a contributing factor.

4. Skin Conditions: Conditions such as eczema or psoriasis can also affect the genital area, leading to irritation and pain. If you have a history of skin issues, this might be worth considering.

5. Other Medical Conditions: Less commonly, urethral pain can be associated with conditions such as prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland) or other urological issues.

When to Seek Medical Help
Given that your symptoms have persisted for a day and you are experiencing mild redness and swelling, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, especially if:
- The pain worsens or does not improve.

- You notice any discharge from the urethra.

- You develop additional symptoms such as fever, chills, or increased swelling.

- You experience pain during urination or any other changes in urination patterns.

Self-Care and Management
In the meantime, here are some self-care tips that may help alleviate your discomfort:
- Wear Loose-Fitting Underwear: Opt for breathable, loose-fitting cotton underwear to reduce friction and irritation.

- Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of scented soaps, lotions, or detergents that may exacerbate irritation.

- Maintain Hygiene: Keep the area clean and dry. Gentle washing with mild soap and water can help.

- Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the area may provide temporary relief from discomfort.

Conclusion
While it is possible that your symptoms are due to minor irritation from your underwear, it is crucial to monitor your condition closely. If the pain persists or worsens, or if you develop any additional symptoms, seeking medical attention is important to rule out any underlying infections or conditions. A healthcare provider can perform the necessary examinations and tests to provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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