Urethritis means inflammation of the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body). Non-specific urethritis (NSU) is any inflammation of the urethra that is not caused by gonorrhoea or chlamydia. NSU is also called non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU). It may cause inflammation of the cervix (cervicitis). NSU is a common STI which can be caused by a number of bacteria, such as mycoplasma or ureaplasma.

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Transmission

• Unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex
• Incubation period may be a few days or as long as six weeks

Signs and Symptoms

Penis

• Slight white or clear urethral discharge
• An irritation when passing urine
• Swelling or tenderness in one or both testes

Vagina

• Often no symptoms, but maybe a change in vaginal discharge
• Pain and bleeding when having sex
• If left untreated, inflammation of the cervix may cause Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

Treatment

NSU is usually treated with a course of antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. Continued or recurring NSU symptoms may require specialist treatment.

Prevention

Use condoms for oral, anal and vaginal sex.

Note: it is recommended that you always change condoms when going from anal to vaginal or oral sex.