Given the risk of STIs, it is in your best interest to have it checked out.
It also explains how long healing takes and what could happen if you leave urethritis untreated.
Some studies suggest that up to 75% of females who get chlamydia have no symptoms at all.
Illustration by Paige McLaughlin for Verywell Health
Causes: Is Urethritis Always From an STI?
The diagnosis will start with a review of your medical history, including recent sexual contacts.
Lab Tests
If urethritis is suspected, aswab of fluid will be taken from the urethra.
A rapid test called agram staincan determine if there are any foreign bacteria in the sample.
A microscopic examination of the sample can establish whether gonococcal urethritis or NGU is the most likely cause.
If the findings are negative, other tests will be ordered to investigate less likely causes.
Even for non-infectious causes, treatment may be needed.
Ideally, the treatment would be tailored to the infection, but this is not always possible.
Even if the cause is non-infectious, antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce the risk of a bacterial infection.
When Do Urethritis Symptoms Start to Heal?
Urethritis tends to respond well to the appropriate antibiotic.
Even when treatment is completed, it may be time before the underlying infection is fully cleared.
Until then, you should probably avoid sexual contact until your healthcare provider gives you the OK.
This prevents you from transmitting it to others and reduces your risk of reinfection.
When Can I Resume Sex?
These include:
Recommended STI Screenings
Urethritis most often affects sexually active younger people.
To better protect yourself, ask your healthcare provider about recommended STI screenings.
Summary
Urethritis is the inflammation of the urethra.
Asbacterial STIs like gonorrhea and chlamydia cause most cases,the treatment usually involves antibiotics.
Department of Veterans Affairs.Women’s health guide - chlamydia.
National Cancer Institute.SEER training module: urethra.
National Health Service (UK).Urethritis.
