Urethral Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help - Urology

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Urinary system


Before going to bed, I suddenly experienced a sharp pain in the urethral opening.
I initially 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 urethral opening, I feel a slight sharp pain.
Upon inspection, I didn't notice any significant abnormalities, but when I retract the urethral opening, I do feel slight redness and swelling.
During sexual activity, I always use a condom, and I don't experience any burning sensation while urinating; the discomfort mainly occurs due to friction from my underwear.

Awei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/25

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: 1) The glans is usually somewhat red internally.
If there are indeed abnormalities, there should be other symptoms.
Currently, it is advisable to drink more plain water and minimize the intake of 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 it as a sexually transmitted disease).
Rest 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: 2021/02/25

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 you are experiencing localized pain around the urethra, particularly after friction from your underwear. Here’s a comprehensive overview of possible causes and recommendations for when to seek medical attention.


Possible Causes of Urethral Pain
1. Irritation or Friction: As you mentioned, the pain may be due to friction from your underwear. Tight-fitting clothing or rough fabrics can cause irritation, leading to discomfort or a burning sensation. This is particularly common if the area is sensitive or if there has been increased activity in that region.

2. Infection: While you noted that there is no burning sensation during urination, it’s still important to consider the possibility of a urinary tract infection (UTI) or sexually transmitted infection (STI). Symptoms of a UTI typically include burning during urination, increased frequency of urination, and sometimes lower abdominal pain. STIs can also present with localized pain, redness, or swelling.

3. Inflammation: Conditions such as urethritis (inflammation of the urethra) can cause pain and discomfort. This may be due to infections or irritants, including soaps, lotions, or other products that come into contact with the genital area.

4. Allergic Reaction: Sometimes, an allergic reaction to laundry detergents, fabric softeners, or personal hygiene products can cause localized irritation and pain. If you’ve recently changed any products, this could be a factor.

5. Other Medical Conditions: Conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans penis), phimosis (tight foreskin), or even skin conditions like eczema can lead to discomfort in the area.

When to Seek Medical Help
You should consider seeking medical attention if:
- Persistent Symptoms: If the pain continues for more than a couple of days without improvement, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

- Worsening Symptoms: If you notice an increase in redness, swelling, or if the pain intensifies, this could indicate a more serious issue that requires evaluation.

- Additional Symptoms: If you develop other symptoms such as fever, chills, unusual discharge, or changes in urination (like increased urgency or frequency), you should seek medical care promptly.

- Sexual Activity Concerns: If you have concerns about STIs due to recent sexual activity, it’s important to get tested, even if you are using protection.


Self-Care Recommendations
In the meantime, here are some self-care tips you can consider:
- Wear Loose Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting underwear and pants to minimize friction and irritation.

- Avoid Irritants: Stay away from scented soaps, lotions, or other products that may irritate the area.

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

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including the onset of new symptoms or changes in the severity of the pain.


Conclusion
While it’s possible that your urethral pain is due to minor irritation from your underwear, it’s crucial to remain vigilant about your symptoms. If the discomfort persists or worsens, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. Early intervention can help prevent potential complications and ensure appropriate treatment.

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