Urethral Issues: What to Know About Urethral Changes

Urethral orifice issues?

There is a depression on both sides of my urethral opening, and one side seems to have a possible ulceration issue, but it doesn't look exactly like an ulcer.
It resembles a small growth of tissue, not very prominent, but when I compare the two sides by parting them, I can clearly see that the area I described is raised.
It is not a lump but rather extends in a long, strip-like shape along the depression.
Currently, there is no pain when I urinate.

Mr. Chen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/01

Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology

Please seek medical attention.

Reply Date: 2022/08/01

More Info

When it comes to urethral issues, particularly changes or abnormalities in the urethral area, it is essential to approach the situation with caution and a thorough understanding of potential causes and implications. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing some unusual changes around the urethral opening, specifically a depression on either side with one side appearing to have a growth-like formation. While you are not experiencing pain during urination, the presence of any unusual growth or change in the urethral area warrants further evaluation.

Understanding Urethral Changes
The urethra is a tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. Changes in the urethral area can arise from various conditions, including infections, inflammatory diseases, benign growths, or even malignancies. Here are some potential causes for the symptoms you are describing:
1. Urethral Stricture: This is a narrowing of the urethra that can occur due to scarring from injury, infection, or inflammation. It can lead to changes in the appearance of the urethral opening.

2. Urethral Caruncle: This is a benign growth that can occur at the urethral opening, often presenting as a small, fleshy mass. It is more common in women and can sometimes be mistaken for more serious conditions.

3. Infection or Inflammation: Conditions such as urethritis (inflammation of the urethra) can cause swelling and changes in the urethral area. This can be due to sexually transmitted infections or other bacterial infections.

4. Genital Warts: Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these can appear as growths around the genital area, including the urethra.

5. Other Benign Tumors: There are various benign tumors that can develop in the genital area, which may not cause pain but can lead to changes in appearance.

Importance of Medical Evaluation
Given the changes you are observing, it is crucial to seek a medical evaluation from a healthcare professional, preferably a urologist. They can perform a physical examination and may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as:
- Ultrasound: This imaging test can help visualize any abnormalities in the urethra and surrounding tissues.

- Cystoscopy: A procedure that allows the doctor to look inside the urethra and bladder using a thin tube with a camera.

- Biopsy: If there is a suspicious growth, a small sample may be taken for laboratory analysis to rule out malignancy.

When to Seek Immediate Care
While you mentioned that you are not experiencing pain during urination, it is essential to monitor for any changes in symptoms. If you begin to experience pain, bleeding, changes in urination frequency, or any other concerning symptoms, you should seek medical attention promptly.

Conclusion
In summary, while the changes you are experiencing may not be causing immediate discomfort, they should not be ignored. Urethral changes can have various underlying causes, some of which may require treatment. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional will provide clarity and help determine the appropriate course of action. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to changes in your body, especially in sensitive areas like the urethra.

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