Definition | Causes | Risk Factors | Symptoms | Diagnosis | Treatment | Prevention

Definition

Urethral syndrome is a term used to describe symptoms of urethritis that does not have evidence of a bacterial or viral infection. The urethra is the tube that carries urine out of the body from the bladder. Urethritis is an inflammation, infection, or irritation of the urethra. It is most commonly seen in women.

Female Urethra

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Causes

Because there is no evidence of infection, the cause of urethral syndrome is often difficult to determine. Possible causes include:

Risk Factors

Risk factors for urethral syndrome include:

Symptoms

The symptoms of urethral syndrome are similar to those of urethritis. Symptoms may include:

  • Pain and/or burning while urinating
  • Difficulty urinating (especially after intercourse)
  • Increase in urinary:
    • Frequency
    • Urgency
    • Blood in the urine
  • Swelling and/or tenderness in the groin
  • Pain during intercourse
  • In men:
    • Discharge from the penis
    • Blood in semen
    • Pain during ejaculation
    • Swollen and/or tender testicles

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. It will include a pelvic exam. Urethral syndrome is usually diagnosed when symptoms of urethritis are present without evidence of an infection.

Tests may include:

Treatment

Treatment may include:

  • Antibiotics—given if your doctor thinks urethral syndrome may be due to an undetected infection
  • Anesthetics
    • Phenazopyridine—may be given by your doctor to ease discomfort while urinating
    • Intraurethral lidocaine jelly
  • Antispasmodics to decrease bladder muscle spasm, such as oxybutynin (Ditropan)
  • Antidepressants, such as a tricyclic antidepressant to relieve pain
  • Alpha-blocking drugs, such as doxazosin (Cardura) to relax smooth muscle tone

Avoid irritants that may cause urethral syndrome. Then, wait and see if your condition improves.

Surgery may be done in cases where narrowing of the urethra is thought to be causing the urethral syndrome.

Prevention

Measures that may help prevent urethral syndrome include:

  • Avoiding the use of:
    • Spermicidal jellies
    • Bubble baths
    • Irritating soaps
    • Scents or perfumes
    • Feminine hygiene sprays and douches
    • Urinary irritant foods and beverages
  • Practicing safe sex, including using condoms
  • Urinating immediately after sexual intercourse
  • Making sure sexually transmitted diseases are treated quickly and completely for you and your partner
  • Regularly drinking plenty of fluids