Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Urethritis is inflammation of the urethra (the tube that caries urine from the bladder). This can happened for a number of reasons including irritation (such as a reaction to soap) or as a result of an infection. Doctors use the term non-specific when there is no obvious cause.
How is non-specific urethritis passed on?
- It can be passed on during unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex where organisms which cause inflammation can pass into the bladder.
- Not all cases of non-specific urethritis are caused by having sex.
- To help protect yourself from non-specific urethritis
- Use condoms (male or female) every time you have vaginal or anal sex. If you have oral sex, use a condom to cover the penis, or a latex or dental dam to cover the female genitals or male or female anus. Avoid sharing sex toys. If you do share them, wash them or cover them with a new condom before anyone else uses them.
How do I know if I have non-specific urethritis?
- Not all men who have inflammation will show signs and symptoms, or they may be so mild they may go unnoticed.
- If you do get signs and symptoms you may notice:
- A white or cloudy discharge from the tip of the penis, usually more noticeable first thing in the morning.
- Difficulty, pain or a burning sensation when passing urine. The feeling that you need to pass urine frequently. Itching or irritation at the end of the urethra.
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