Urethritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention Tips

Urethritis

Hello Doctor: I started being intimate with my girlfriend in July last year, approximately once a month.
However, since November, every time we have intercourse, a few days later my girlfriend experiences urethritis, hematuria, and painful urination.
She has already seen a doctor who prescribed antibiotics, diagnosing it as a urinary tract infection.
Initially, we thought it was due to hygiene issues, so we made sure to shower thoroughly beforehand, but the situation hasn't improved.
She has no issues in her daily life, but she gets infections every time we are intimate.
During foreplay, she keeps her underwear on and only removes it right before penetration.
Just a few days ago we were intimate, and today she is experiencing inflammation again.
Is it possible that my girlfriend has a lower resistance to bacteria? It seems that just showering isn't enough for thorough cleaning.
Do you have any better suggestions, or are there any health issues regarding my girlfriend that we should pay more attention to? Thank you.

Xiao Yi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/02/02

Dr. Zhang Chengye reply Urology

Hello! Your question is not related to medical issues, but it is advisable to use condoms.
This is a response from Dr.
Chang Cheng-yeh, attending physician of the Urology Department at Hsinchu Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2005/02/02

More Info

Urethritis, or inflammation of the urethra, can be a frustrating and painful condition, particularly when it recurs after sexual activity. Based on your description, it seems that your girlfriend has been experiencing recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) following sexual intercourse, which can be attributed to several factors.

Causes of Urethritis
1. Bacterial Infection: The most common cause of urethritis is a bacterial infection, often due to bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), which can be introduced into the urethra during sexual activity. This is especially common in women due to their shorter urethra and proximity of the urethra to the vagina and anus.

2. Sexual Activity: Engaging in sexual intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urethra. If proper hygiene is not maintained, this can lead to infections. It’s important to note that even with careful washing, bacteria can still be present.

3. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly those related to the menstrual cycle, can affect the vaginal flora and potentially lead to increased susceptibility to infections.

4. Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, which can affect immune function, or anatomical abnormalities in the urinary tract, can predispose individuals to recurrent infections.

5. Irritation: Sometimes, irritation from soaps, spermicides, or other products can mimic or exacerbate symptoms of urethritis.

Symptoms of Urethritis
Common symptoms include:
- Burning sensation during urination
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Pain in the lower abdomen
- Discharge from the urethra
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)

Prevention Tips
1. Hygiene Practices: Both partners should maintain good hygiene. This includes washing the genital area before and after sexual activity. It’s advisable for both partners to urinate before and after intercourse to help flush out any bacteria.

2. Hydration: Encourage your girlfriend to drink plenty of water. Increased fluid intake can help dilute urine and promote urination, which can flush out bacteria.

3. Cranberry Products: Some studies suggest that cranberry juice or supplements may help prevent UTIs by preventing bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract lining.

4. Avoid Irritants: Avoid using scented soaps, bubble baths, or other products that may irritate the genital area.

5. Consider Sexual Practices: If certain sexual practices seem to trigger infections, it may be worth discussing alternative methods or positions that may reduce the risk of introducing bacteria.

6. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If infections persist, it’s essential for your girlfriend to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. This may include urine cultures to identify the specific bacteria involved and possibly a referral to a urologist or gynecologist for further investigation.

7. Antibiotic Prophylaxis: In some cases, a healthcare provider may recommend a short course of antibiotics after sexual intercourse to prevent recurrent infections.

Conclusion
Recurrent urethritis can be distressing, and it’s essential to address both the immediate symptoms and the underlying causes. By implementing good hygiene practices, staying hydrated, and consulting with a healthcare provider, you and your girlfriend can work towards reducing the frequency of these infections. If the problem persists, further medical evaluation may be necessary to rule out any underlying conditions that could be contributing to her susceptibility to infections.

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