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Definition

Urethral syndrome is a term used to describe symptoms of urethritis]]> , without any evidence of bacterial or viral infection as a cause. Urethritis is an inflammation, infection, or irritation of the urethra. It is most commonly seen in women. The urethra is the tube that carries urine out of the body from the bladder.

Female Urethra

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Causes

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

  • Undetected bacterial or viral infection of the urethra
  • Irritation of the urethra, caused by:
    • Radiation]]> exposure
    • ]]>Chemotherapy]]>
    • Spermicidal jellies used during sexual intercourse
    • Bubble baths
    • Harsh soaps
    • Scents or perfumes
    • Injury to the urethra caused by a blow to the pelvic area
    • Sexual intercourse (especially in women)
    • Urinary irritants such as caffeine and certain foods
  • Specifically in women, irritation of the urethra may be caused by:
    • Feminine hygiene sprays or douches
    • Sanitary napkins
    • Contraceptive gels
    • Condoms
  • Structural problems, such as narrowing of the urethra

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Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

Risk factors include:

  • Sex: female
  • Factors that may lead to an undetected infection:
    • Unprotected sex (without use of a condom)
    • History of sexually transmitted diseases
    • Bacterial infection of other parts of the urinary tract ( bladder]]> , ]]>kidney]]> )
    • Medications that lower resistance to infections

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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 penis
    • Blood in semen
    • Pain during ejaculation
    • Swollen and/or tender testicles

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam including a pelvic exam. Urethral syndrome is usually diagnosed when symptoms of urethritis are present, but there is no evidence of an infection as the cause.

Tests may include:

  • Urine tests or urethral swab tests for lab study
  • Tests for sexually transmitted diseases
  • Cystoscopy]]> and/or urethroscopy—use of a thin, lighted tube to examine the inside of the bladder and/or urethra; this investigation is usually required when symptoms persist and/or do not respond to simple treatments.
  • Pelvic ]]>ultrasound]]> —to look at the bladder and the reproductive system

Treatment

Treatment may include:

Medication

  • 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 (eg, oxybutynin [Ditropan])
  • Antidepressants such as a tricyclic antidepressant to relieve pain
  • Alpha-blocking drugs such as doxazosin (Cardura) to relax smooth muscle tone

Avoidance of Irritants

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

Surgery

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
    • Harsh soaps
    • Scents or perfumes
    • Feminine hygiene sprays and douches
    • Urinary irritant foods and beverages
  • Practicing safe sex, including using condoms
  • Urinating immediately after having sexual intercourse
  • Making sure sexually-transmitted diseases are treated quickly and completely for you and your partner
  • Regularly drinking plenty of fluids