White Discharge from the Urethra: Causes and Concerns - Urology

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Hello, regarding the white discharge from the urethral opening?


Hello, I recently had a fever but did not experience any respiratory symptoms.
When I visited the emergency room, the doctor tapped my back, and I did not feel any significant pain.
The next day, I had a fever again.
On the third day, I had less fever, but I noticed a white discharge from the urethral opening.
I also felt a bit strange while urinating, but the flow was still relatively smooth.
I have not engaged in any form of sexual activity with others, only self-stimulation.
Could this indicate a urinary tract infection?

Fanrao de, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/06/17

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Concerned individual: You may have urethritis.
Urethritis is not necessarily related to sexual activity.
Sometimes, holding in urine, insufficient water intake, or inadequate hygiene can lead to inflammation of the urethra.
If you have any further questions, feel free to ask again for more discussion and research.
Responses from the internet should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
This message is brought to you by Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2014/06/17

More Info


Understanding white discharge from the urethra can be concerning, especially when accompanied by symptoms like fever. Based on the information you've provided, it’s important to consider several potential causes for your symptoms.

1. Possible Causes of White Discharge: The presence of white discharge from the urethra can be indicative of several conditions. One common cause is a urinary tract infection (UTI), which can occur even without typical symptoms like painful urination or a strong urge to urinate. In some cases, UTIs can present with fever and discharge. Another possibility is urethritis, which is inflammation of the urethra often caused by infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia or gonorrhea. Even if you have not engaged in sexual intercourse, it is still possible to contract these infections through other means, such as skin-to-skin contact or sharing contaminated items.

2. Symptoms to Monitor: Since you mentioned experiencing a fever, it’s crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If the fever returns or if you develop additional symptoms such as increased pain during urination, abdominal pain, or changes in the discharge (such as color or odor), it would be wise to seek medical attention promptly.
3. Diagnosis and Testing: To determine the exact cause of your symptoms, a healthcare provider may recommend a urinalysis and possibly a urine culture to identify any bacterial infections. If urethritis is suspected, they may also perform tests for STIs, even if you believe you have not been exposed.
4. Treatment Options: If a UTI or urethritis is diagnosed, treatment typically involves antibiotics. It’s essential to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication. Additionally, drinking plenty of fluids can help flush out the urinary system.

5. Prevention: To reduce the risk of future urinary tract infections, consider practicing good hygiene, staying well-hydrated, and urinating after any sexual activity (even if it’s solo) to help clear the urethra of any potential irritants or pathogens.

6. When to Seek Immediate Care: If you experience severe pain, persistent fever, blood in your urine, or any other alarming symptoms, it’s important to seek immediate medical care. These could be signs of a more serious condition that requires prompt treatment.

In summary, while the white discharge you are experiencing could be a sign of a urinary tract infection or urethritis, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can prevent complications and help you recover more quickly. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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