Urethritis is swelling and irritation (inflammation) of the urethra. The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the body.

Urethritis may be caused by bacteria or a virus. The same bacteria that cause urinary tract infections (E. coli) and some sexually transmitted diseases (Chlamydia, gonorrhea) can lead to urethritis. Viral causes of urethritis include herpes simplex virus and cytomegalovirus.

Other causes include:

• Injury

• Sensitivity to the chemicals used in spermicides or contraceptive jellies, creams, or foams

Risks for urethritis include:

• Being a female in the reproductive years

• Being male, ages 20 – 35

• Having many sexual partners

• High-risk sexual behavior (such as anal sex without a condom)

• History of sexually transmitted diseases

• Blood in the urine or semen

• Burning pain while urinating (dysuria)

• Discharge from penis

• Fever (rare)

• Frequent or urgent urination

• Itching, tenderness, or swelling in penis or groin area

• Pain with intercourse or ejaculation

• Abdominal pain

• Burning pain while urinating

• Fever and chills

• Frequent or urgent urination

• Pelvic pain

• Vaginal discharge