What are the common causes of urethritis. How is urethritis diagnosed and treated. What are the symptoms of urethritis in men and women. Can urethritis lead to complications if left untreated. How can urethritis be prevented.

Understanding Urethritis: A Comprehensive Guide

Urethritis is an inflammation or infection of the urethra, the tube responsible for carrying urine from the bladder out of the body. This condition can affect both men and women, causing discomfort and potentially leading to more serious complications if left untreated. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for urethritis, as well as prevention strategies to help maintain urinary tract health.

Common Causes of Urethritis: Bacterial and Viral Culprits

Urethritis can be caused by various microorganisms, with bacteria being the most common culprits. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) play a significant role in the development of urethritis. Some of the primary causes include:

• Neisseria gonorrhoeae (gonorrhea)
• Chlamydia trachomatis
• Herpes simplex virus
• Trichomonas vaginalis
• Escherichia coli (E. coli)

Gonorrhea is particularly common in men with urethritis, while women may experience infections in other parts of the reproductive system, such as the vagina, cervix, uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. It’s important to note that urethritis can also be caused by non-infectious factors, such as irritation from chemicals or physical trauma.

The Role of Sexually Transmitted Infections in Urethritis

STIs are a significant contributor to urethritis cases. During sexual intercourse with an infected partner, organisms like Neisseria gonorrhoeae can spread to the urethra. Chlamydia and herpes simplex virus are also commonly transmitted sexually and can cause urethritis. Understanding the link between sexual activity and urethritis is crucial for both prevention and timely treatment.

Recognizing Urethritis Symptoms: Gender-Specific Manifestations

The symptoms of urethritis can vary between men and women, although there are some common indicators. Recognizing these symptoms early can lead to prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Urethritis Symptoms in Men

In men, urethritis often presents with the following symptoms:

• Pain or burning sensation during urination
• Frequent and urgent need to urinate
• Discharge from the urethra (often yellowish-green and thick in gonorrheal infections, or clear and thinner with other organisms)
• Itching or irritation at the tip of the penis
• Swelling of the penis or testicles in some cases

Urethritis Symptoms in Women

Women may experience slightly different symptoms, including:

• Pain or burning during urination
• Increased frequency and urgency of urination
• Less commonly, discharge from the urethra
• Pelvic pain or discomfort
• Abnormal vaginal discharge or bleeding

It’s important to note that some individuals may be asymptomatic, meaning they show no noticeable symptoms despite having the infection. This underscores the importance of regular check-ups and STI screenings for sexually active individuals.

Diagnosing Urethritis: Medical Evaluation and Testing

Proper diagnosis of urethritis is crucial for effective treatment. Healthcare providers typically follow a multi-step approach to diagnose this condition:

1. Medical history: The doctor will ask about symptoms, sexual activity, and any previous UTIs or STIs.
2. Physical examination: This may include examining the genitals for signs of inflammation or discharge.
3. Urinalysis: A urine sample is analyzed for the presence of white blood cells, bacteria, or other microorganisms.
4. Urine culture: This test can identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and help determine the most effective antibiotic treatment.
5. Swab tests: For men, a swab of urethral discharge may be taken for laboratory analysis. In women, vaginal and cervical swabs may also be collected.
6. STI screening: Tests for common STIs like gonorrhea and chlamydia are often performed.

In some cases, additional tests such as cystoscopy (examination of the urethra and bladder using a thin, flexible scope) may be necessary to rule out other urinary tract conditions.

Treatment Options for Urethritis: Targeting the Underlying Cause

The treatment for urethritis depends on its underlying cause. In most cases, antibiotics are the primary form of treatment. The choice of antibiotic and duration of treatment will vary based on the specific pathogen identified and the patient’s medical history.

Antibiotic Treatment for Bacterial Urethritis

For bacterial urethritis, commonly prescribed antibiotics include:

• Azithromycin
• Doxycycline
• Ceftriaxone
• Ciprofloxacin

The course of antibiotics typically lasts 7 to 14 days, although some infections may require a single-dose treatment. It’s crucial for patients to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.

Managing Viral Urethritis

For viral causes of urethritis, such as herpes simplex virus, antiviral medications may be prescribed. These can help manage symptoms and reduce the duration of outbreaks. In some cases, ongoing suppressive therapy may be recommended to prevent recurrent infections.

Treating Non-Infectious Urethritis

If the urethritis is caused by non-infectious factors, such as irritation from chemicals or physical trauma, treatment may involve:

• Avoiding irritants
• Using barrier methods during sexual activity
• Applying soothing creams or ointments
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers to manage discomfort

Potential Complications of Untreated Urethritis

If left untreated, urethritis can lead to several complications, some of which can have long-term health consequences. These potential complications include:

• Chronic urethritis: Persistent inflammation of the urethra
• Urethral stricture: Narrowing of the urethra due to scar tissue formation
• Epididymitis in men: Inflammation of the epididymis, a tube at the back of the testicles
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in women: Infection of the upper reproductive tract
• Infertility: In severe cases, untreated urethritis can lead to fertility issues
• Increased risk of HIV transmission: Urethritis can make it easier to contract or transmit HIV

These potential complications underscore the importance of seeking prompt medical attention and adhering to prescribed treatments for urethritis.

Prevention Strategies: Maintaining Urinary Tract Health

While not all cases of urethritis can be prevented, there are several steps individuals can take to reduce their risk:

1. Practice safe sex: Use condoms consistently and correctly during sexual activity.
2. Get regular STI screenings: If sexually active, particularly with multiple partners.
3. Maintain good hygiene: Clean the genital area properly and urinate after sexual intercourse.
4. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.
5. Avoid irritants: Use mild, unscented soaps and avoid douching or using harsh chemicals in the genital area.
6. Wear breathable underwear: Choose cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting pants.
7. Urinate regularly: Don’t hold urine for extended periods.

By incorporating these preventive measures into daily life, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing urethritis and other urinary tract infections.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Recognizing Urgent Symptoms

While some cases of urethritis may resolve on their own, it’s important to know when to seek medical attention. Consider consulting a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Persistent pain or burning during urination
• Unusual discharge from the urethra
• Blood in the urine
• Fever or chills
• Lower abdominal pain
• Swelling or pain in the testicles (for men)
• Symptoms that persist or worsen despite home care measures

Early intervention can prevent the progression of urethritis and reduce the risk of complications. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional if you’re concerned about your symptoms or have been exposed to an STI.

The Importance of Partner Notification and Treatment

If diagnosed with urethritis, particularly if it’s caused by an STI, it’s crucial to inform recent sexual partners. They should be encouraged to seek testing and treatment if necessary. This not only helps prevent the spread of infections but also reduces the risk of reinfection for the initial patient. Many healthcare providers offer partner notification services to assist in this process while maintaining patient confidentiality.

Urethritis – Kidney and Urinary Tract Disorders

By

Talha H. Imam

, MD, University of Riverside School of Medicine

Reviewed/Revised Dec 2022

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Topic Resources

Urethritis is infection of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body.

• Bacteria, including those that are sexually transmitted, are the most common cause of urethritis.

• Symptoms include pain while urinating, a frequent or urgent need to urinate, and sometimes a discharge.

• Antibiotics are usually given to treat the infection.

(See also Overview of Urinary Tract Infections [UTIs] Overview of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) In healthy people, urine in the bladder is sterile—no bacteria or other infectious organisms are present. The tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body (urethra) contains no bacteria… read more .)

VIDEO

Urethritis may be caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses (for example, herpes simplex virus Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infections Herpes simplex virus infection causes recurring episodes of small, painful, fluid-filled blisters on the skin, mouth, lips (cold sores), eyes, or genitals. This very contagious viral infection… read more ).

Sexually transmitted infections Overview of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Sexually transmitted infection (STI) refers to an infection that is passed through blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or other body fluids during oral, anal, or genital sex with an infected partner. .. read more are common causes of urethritis. Organisms—such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which causes gonorrhea Gonorrhea Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which infect the lining of the urethra, cervix, rectum, or throat, or the membranes that cover… read more —can spread to the urethra during sexual intercourse with an infected partner. Chlamydia and the herpes simplex virus are also commonly transmitted sexually and can cause urethritis (see Chlamydial and Other Infections Chlamydia and Other Nongonococcal Infections Chlamydial infections include sexually transmitted infections of the urethra, cervix, and rectum that are caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. These bacteria can also infect… read more ). When men develop urethritis, the gonorrheal organism is a very common cause. Although this organism may infect the urethra in women, the vagina, cervix, uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes are more likely to be infected. Trichomonas Trichomoniasis Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection of the vagina or urethra that is caused by the protozoa Trichomonas vaginalis and that causes vaginal irritation and discharge and sometimes… read more , a type of microscopic parasite, also causes urethritis in men. Urethritis may also be caused by the bacteria that commonly cause other urinary tract infections, such as Escherichia coli Escherichia coli Infections Escherichia coli (E. coli) are a group of gram-negative bacteria that normally reside in the intestine of healthy people, but some strains can cause infection in the digestive… read more .

In both men and women, there is usually pain during urination and a frequent, urgent need to urinate. Sometimes people have no symptoms. In men, when gonorrhea Gonorrhea Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which infect the lining of the urethra, cervix, rectum, or throat, or the membranes that cover. .. read more or chlamydia Chlamydia and Other Nongonococcal Infections Chlamydial infections include sexually transmitted infections of the urethra, cervix, and rectum that are caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. These bacteria can also infect… read more is the cause, there is usually a discharge from the urethra. The discharge is often yellowish green and thick when the gonococcal organism is involved and may be clear and thinner when other organisms are involved. In women, discharge is less common.

VIDEO

Other disorders that cause pain during urination include bladder infection Bladder Infection Cystitis is infection of the bladder. Usually, bacteria are the cause of cystitis. A frequent need to urinate and pain or burning while urinating are the most common symptoms. Doctors can often… read more and vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina).

Infections of the urethra that are not treated or are inadequately treated may cause a narrowing (stricture) of the urethra. Urethral Stricture A urethral stricture is scarring that narrows the urethra. A urethral stricture may be Present from birth Develop after an infection or injury A urethral stricture most commonly results from… read more A stricture increases the risk that infections will develop in the bladder or the kidneys. Untreated gonorrhea Gonorrhea Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which infect the lining of the urethra, cervix, rectum, or throat, or the membranes that cover… read more rarely leads to an accumulation of pus (abscess) around the urethra. An abscess can cause outpouchings from the urethral wall (urethral diverticula), which can also become infected. If the abscess perforates the skin, the vagina, or the rectum, urine may flow through a newly created abnormal connection (urethral fistula).

Doctors can usually make a diagnosis of urethritis based on the symptoms and examination. A sample of the discharge, if present, is collected by inserting a soft-tipped swab into the end of the urethra. The urethral swab is then sent to a laboratory for analysis so that the infecting organism can be identified.

Sexually transmitted infections Overview of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Sexually transmitted infection (STI) refers to an infection that is passed through blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or other body fluids during oral, anal, or genital sex with an infected partner… read more (STIs) that cause urethritis may be prevented by using a condom.

Treatment depends on the cause of the infection. However, identification of the organism causing urethritis can take days. Thus, doctors usually begin treatment with antibiotics that cure the most common causes. For sexually active men, treatment is usually with a ceftriaxone injection for gonorrhea plus oral azithromycin or oral doxycycline for chlamydia. If tests exclude the possibility of gonorrhea and chlamydia, then the man should be tested for other disorders, such as trichomoniasis. Women may be treated as if they had cystitis. Bladder Infection Cystitis is infection of the bladder. Usually, bacteria are the cause of cystitis. A frequent need to urinate and pain or burning while urinating are the most common symptoms. Doctors can often… read more An antiviral drug, such as acyclovir, may be needed for a herpes simplex infection. If the cause is suspected to be an STI, the person’s sex partners should be evaluated for treatment. Men who receive a diagnosis of urethritis should be tested for HIV Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Infection Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a viral infection that progressively destroys certain white blood cells and is treated with antiretroviral medications. If untreated, it can cause… read more and syphilis. Syphilis Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum. It can occur in three stages of symptoms, separated by periods of apparent good health. Syphilis… read more

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Top 3 Causes of Green Vaginal Discharge

1. Genital & Urinary

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2. Green Vaginal Discharge

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Vaginal discharge is normal, but if it’s green, that’s a sign of an infection, such as an STD.

Written by

Jessica B. White-Videa, DO, FACOG.

Ivonne Reynolds DO, LLC

Last updated May 25, 2023

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What does green vaginal discharge mean?

Causes

Next steps

Treatment

Prevention

Table of Contents

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Written by

Jessica B. White-Videa, DO, FACOG.

Ivonne Reynolds DO, LLC

Last updated May 25, 2023

Green vaginal discharge quiz

Take a quiz to find out what’s causing your discharge.

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Green vaginal discharge is often a sign that you have a vaginal infection. Common culprits are a yeast infection or vaginosis, but it is also a common symptom of STDs, like trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia. You will likely have other symptoms like irritation or pain with urinating. Prescription or over-the-counter medications are usually needed to treat it.

3 most common causes

Yeast Infection

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Illustration of a health care worker swabbing an individual.

Vaginal trichomonas

Green vaginal discharge quiz

Take a quiz to find out what’s causing your discharge.

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Most common questions

Common causes of green vaginal discharge include vaginal infections such as yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, and sexually transmitted infections. You should consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Was this information helpful?

Thank you! Buoy values your feedback. The more we know about what’s working – and what could improve – the better we can make our experience.

Having green vaginal discharge is not necessarily an emergency. However, if there is a fever or severe pain that does not respond to over-the-counter medications, it may be necessary to go to the emergency room.

Was this information helpful?

Thank you! Buoy values your feedback. The more we know about what’s working – and what could improve – the better we can make our experience.

Green vaginal discharge is often a sign of an infection, so it is recommended to call your doctor to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Was this information helpful?

Thank you! Buoy values your feedback. The more we know about what’s working – and what could improve – the better we can make our experience.

Treatment for green vaginal discharge will depend on the underlying cause, but may involve anti-fungal creams, or antibiotics for possible infections.

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Your response today was provided by ChatGPT trained on the proprietary content of this page. Please note, this tool is for information purposes only and not intended to be used as a substitute for professional advice. You assume responsibility for decisions made with your individual medical situation.

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What does green vaginal discharge mean?

Vaginal discharge is normal. Its consistency changes throughout the month and is a key sign of ovulation. Some women naturally have more discharge than others. However, it is never normal to have green vaginal discharge.

Green vaginal discharge can be a sign of something relatively easy to treat, such as a yeast infection. Or it may be a sign of a sexually transmitted disease (STD). If you have a green vaginal discharge, it is very likely you will also have other symptoms, such as vaginal irritation and discomfort, pain with urination, and pelvic pain.

Most causes of green vaginal discharge are treated with over-the-counter or prescription medications.

Causes

1. Vaginal trichomonas

Pro Tip

Trichomoniasis is the most common cause of green discharge. But most women with trichomoniasis are asymptomatic. They only find out they have it during a routine PAP smear. —Dr. Jessica White-Videa

Symptoms

• Vaginal odor
• Vaginal itching or burning
• More than usual vaginal discharge

Vaginal trichomonas, also called trichomoniasis or “trich,” is a common STD caused by a parasite. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it affects over 2 million people per year. Only about 30% have symptoms.

You need a test to make sure you have vaginal trichomonas. If the test is positive, your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic to treat the infection.

2. Yeast infection

Symptoms

• Cottage cheese-like discharge
• Yellow or green-tinged discharge
• Vaginal itching and discomfort
• Swelling of the external genitals
• Burning or pain when urinating

A yeast infection is a common vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida albicans.

Yeast infections can happen because you’re taking antibiotics or birth control pills, are pregnant, or have diabetes or a weakened immune system. These conditions can disturb the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina.

Stress, sexual activity, living in a warm climate, and using perfumed soaps and other personal hygiene products can also raise your risk for yeast infection.

Over-the-counter and prescription anti-fungal creams and medications usually treat yeast infections.

3. Pelvic inflammatory disease

Symptoms

• Fever
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pelvic pain, including during sexual intercourse

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a general term for a bacterial infection of a woman’s reproductive organs. The major causes are two STDs called gonorrhea and chlamydia. But you can get PID from other bacteria commonly found in the rectal and vaginal area, including the one that causes bacterial vaginosis.

It’s important to talk to your doctor about any symptoms because untreated PID can cause infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and abdominal pain. Treatment includes antibiotics. If the cause is chlamydia or gonorrhea, your partner also needs to get treated.

Other possible causes

A number of conditions may also cause green vaginal discharge, though these are either rare or green vaginal discharge is not usually the defining symptom. They include bacterial vaginosis and a tampon that’s kept in for too long.

When to call the doctor

As soon as you notice green vaginal discharge, call your doctor to determine the cause.

Dr. Rx

Important questions to ask your doctor: What is the underlying cause of this discharge? Should my partner be tested and treated? Should I be screened for other STDs? —Dr. White-Videa

Should I go to the ER for green vaginal discharge?

Your doctor should be able to treat most cases of green vaginal discharge. However, go to the emergency room if you have any of these signs of a more serious problem:

• Fever
• Severe pain that does not respond to over-the-counter medications
• Severe nausea and vomiting

Treatments

Pro Tip

When talking with your doctor, be very open and honest about your sexual history. —Dr. White-Videa

At-home care

• Use an over-the-counter, anti-fungal creams for suspected yeast infection.
• Use a cold compress, such as an ice pack wrapped in a washcloth, to alleviate discomfort due to itching or swelling

Other treatment options

• Prescription strength anti-fungal pills and creams
• Antibiotics for sexually transmitted infections

Prevention

• Avoid douching and the use of scented soaps to restore the balance of vaginal organisms.
• Use a condom during sexual intercourse to prevent STDs.
• Limit number of sexual partners.
• Replace or remove tampons after 4 to 8 hours, the FDA advises.

Jessica B. White-Videa, DO, FACOG.

Ivonne Reynolds DO, LLC

Dr. White-Videa is a board-certified Obstetrician/Gynecologist. She received her undergraduate degree in 2002, in Psychology from Barnard College in New York City . Dr. White-Videa then attended the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) starting in 2005. During that time, she participated in several medical mission trips and also mentored high school students who wanted to pursue car. ..

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What Causes Bloody Vaginal Discharge?

While there is an array of color and consistency to vaginal discharge, it’s quite common to have bloody vaginal discharge after your period. Other causes can relate to age, bacterial or yeast infections, or an STD.

Read more

Vaginal Itching and Burning

Some causes of vaginal itching or burning, such as yeast infections, are common and may be treated at home. But it’s still important to talk to a doctor to rule out other causes, such as infections and skin conditions.

Read more

Vaginal Discharge: What Different Colors & Odors Mean

A comprehensive guide to understanding vaginal discharge including colors, odors and causes.

Read more

Vaginal Swelling

A swollen vagina is often accompanied by other conditions, such pain, discharge, or itching, and can be caused by inflammation, obstruction, or trauma.

Read more

What Causes Bloody Vaginal Discharge?

While there is an array of color and consistency to vaginal discharge, it’s quite common to have bloody vaginal discharge after your period. Other causes can relate to age, bacterial or yeast infections, or an STD.

Read more

Vaginal Itching and Burning

Some causes of vaginal itching or burning, such as yeast infections, are common and may be treated at home. But it’s still important to talk to a doctor to rule out other causes, such as infections and skin conditions.

Read more

Vaginal Discharge: What Different Colors & Odors Mean

A comprehensive guide to understanding vaginal discharge including colors, odors and causes.

Read more

Vaginal Swelling

A swollen vagina is often accompanied by other conditions, such pain, discharge, or itching, and can be caused by inflammation, obstruction, or trauma.

Read more

What Causes Bloody Vaginal Discharge?

While there is an array of color and consistency to vaginal discharge, it’s quite common to have bloody vaginal discharge after your period. Other causes can relate to age, bacterial or yeast infections, or an STD.

Read more

Vaginal Itching and Burning

Some causes of vaginal itching or burning, such as yeast infections, are common and may be treated at home. But it’s still important to talk to a doctor to rule out other causes, such as infections and skin conditions.

Read more

Vaginal Discharge: What Different Colors & Odors Mean

A comprehensive guide to understanding vaginal discharge including colors, odors and causes.

Read more

Vaginal Swelling

A swollen vagina is often accompanied by other conditions, such pain, discharge, or itching, and can be caused by inflammation, obstruction, or trauma.

Read more

Yellow or green vaginal discharge in women

Yellow or green vaginal discharge, especially if they are abundant and accompanied by an unpleasant odor, is a sign of the development of a pathological process and a serious reason to consult a gynecologist.

Any change in the discharge, which is normally clear to milky white in color and practically odorless, should alert the woman. Discoloration of normal discharge to yellow, yellow-green or green, sometimes frothy, accompanied by an unpleasant (for example, fishy) odor, itching and burning in the vagina and vulva, pain in the pelvic area, dysuria, pain during intercourse – signs of infection or inflammation that requires treatment.

Discoloration, consistency or smell of discharge may be caused by infections, many of which are sexually transmitted (chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis). In some cases, a woman may have several types of such infections.

Bacterial vaginosis

This disease is characterized by signs such as a change in the smell of discharge to fish (especially after intercourse or during menstruation), a change in the color of the discharge to gray, yellow or greenish, itching and burning in the vagina and vulva (rare) . Often, bacterial vaginosis is asymptomatic, so it is very important to undergo regular preventive examinations by a gynecologist. The disease occurs due to a violation of the natural balance of lactobacilli in the vagina, this is the most common cause of pathological discharge in women of reproductive age (before menopause). The risk is higher in women who are sexually active, who have multiple sexual partners (the disease is not sexually transmitted, the risk increases due to a violation of the microflora of the vagina and an increased likelihood of bacterial reproduction), who do not use contraceptives such as condoms, who use douching, and also in pregnant women against the background of hormonal changes. In some cases, bacterial vaginosis resolves without treatment, but more often requires the use of antibiotic therapy. In most cases, a course of antibiotics is sufficient to achieve treatment success, but sometimes a second course of drugs is required. Treatment does not guarantee the absence of the disease in the future, according to statistics, more than 70% of women experience bacterial vaginosis again.

Pregnant women with bacterial vaginosis (whether symptomatic or not) are given drugs that are safe to use during pregnancy. Refusal of treatment can cause complications of pregnancy: premature birth or the birth of a child with a weight below the average.

Timely referral to a gynecologist for diagnosis and treatment of this condition is very important, as BV is associated with negative obstetric and gynecological outcomes, including increased susceptibility to STIs (especially HIV), complications after operations such as hysterectomy. In addition, the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis are similar to those of other vaginal infections, so you need to see a doctor for differential diagnosis and treatment.

The disease is not fully understood, so there is no reliable way to avoid BV. Risk reduction is facilitated by: avoiding douching, limiting the number of sexual partners, using condoms, good personal hygiene, wearing cotton underwear.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. You can become infected with it, including during anal or oral sex, the use of common devices to satisfy sexual needs. The risk group includes people under 25 years of age, women with multiple sexual partners, women who previously had chlamydia, pregnant women. Often the infection does not show any symptoms, so people with chlamydia, not knowing that they are infected, do not take action and pass the infection on. The spread of the disease can only be reduced by regular examinations by a gynecologist, which, unfortunately, many women neglect. Meanwhile, in women, the complications of chlamydia are much more severe than in men – inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs, pregnancy complications (premature birth, transmission of infection to the newborn), reactive arthritis, increased risk of HIV infection.

Symptoms of chlamydia (if present) are similar to those of cervicitis (inflammation in the cervix) and urinary tract infections: white, yellow or gray vaginal discharge, sometimes with an unpleasant odor, frequent urination, dysuria, pus in the urine, itching and burning in the vagina and vulva, intermenstrual bleeding, painful menstruation, discomfort and pain during intercourse, pain in the lower abdomen. Chlamydia can affect not only the reproductive organs, so along with the above symptoms, you need to pay attention to pain in the anus, mucus, bleeding from the anus, sore throat, conjunctivitis.

Chlamydia is diagnosed using the Nucleic Acid Amplification Technique (NAAT), and a gynecologist may take a vaginal swab, cervical swab, or urine sample to test for Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria in the laboratory. Treatment of chlamydia is carried out with antibiotics (the duration of the course is determined by the doctor), which should never be stopped. During this time, you should abstain from sexual activity, try to tell all sexual partners that you have the infection, and get tested for other STIs, including HIV/AIDS, syphilis, herpes, and gonorrhea.

To reduce your risk of chlamydia, use condoms, have sex with a partner you know you have, and generally practice safer sex.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a parasitic disease caused by the vaginal Trichomonas Trichomonas vaginalis, also belongs to STIs, is highly contagious. Like chlamydia, trichomoniasis is often asymptomatic and therefore difficult to detect and treat (unless a woman has regular pelvic exams). Women are more prone to trichomoniasis than men, the risk increases if the rules of safe sex are ignored (refusal to use condoms) and if there are several sexual partners.

Symptoms of trichomoniasis include watery (sometimes frothy), profuse white, yellow or green discharge with an unpleasant odor, irritation and itching of the genitals, pain and burning during urination, pain during intimacy.

Diagnosis of the disease includes an examination by a gynecologist and a laboratory examination of a sample of discharge. Treatment is carried out with drugs with antiprotozoal and antimicrobial action for 5-7 days (infected and his partner / s). At this time, it is necessary to give up alcohol, since the interaction of drugs with it can cause side effects (nausea, vomiting, heart palpitations). After completing the course of treatment, you should refrain from intimacy for a week to avoid re-infection.

In pregnant women, treatment of trichomoniasis is carried out according to the same principle, failure to treat it can lead to complications such as premature birth (before 37 weeks of pregnancy) and low birth weight of the newborn.

Prevention of trichomoniasis includes the use of condoms, regular check-ups for sexually transmitted diseases, adherence to doctor’s recommendations for treating an identified infection, choosing a relationship with one sexual partner.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by gonococci (Neisseria gonorrhoeae). People who often change sexual partners and ignore the rules of safe sex are at high risk of the disease. The disease can be asymptomatic, so those infected do not immediately seek help and continue to infect their partners, unaware that they are sick.

If symptoms of gonorrhea are present, you may notice white or yellow vaginal discharge, pain in the lower abdomen and pelvis, pain and burning when urinating, intermenstrual bleeding, sore throat (if you practice oral sex).

Diagnosis of gonorrhea includes questioning the patient about symptoms, intimacy and sexual preferences, gynecological examination, urinalysis and a sample of secretions from the cervix, bacteriological culture from the throat or anus. Antibacterial therapy is prescribed for treatment (including the partner). After completing the course of treatment, you should refrain from intimacy for a week, as well as be tested for other sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV / AIDS, syphilis, herpes and chlamydia. Prevention of the disease is similar to the prevention of any STD.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

Occurs when an infection (including STIs) enters the upper reproductive system (uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries) or the small pelvis (pelvioperitonitis). The risk of PID is higher in women with STIs (gonorrhea or chlamydia), who have had PID before, in sexually active women under 25 years of age, with multiple sexual partners, as well as after an abortion, complicated childbirth, insertion of an intrauterine device, gynecological operations. Without treatment, PID can lead to complications such as chronic pelvic pain syndrome, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy.

Symptoms of the disease can be either mild or appear abruptly and suddenly. These include pain in the lower abdomen, yellow or green discharge with an unpleasant odor, nausea or vomiting, fever, pain during intimacy and urination, irregular periods, intermenstrual bleeding.

The diagnosis of PID is established on the basis of anamnesis, gynecological examination, determination of signs of infection and inflammation, and ultrasound results. Antibacterial therapy is prescribed for treatment. The earlier PID is treated, the less likely it is to develop complications.

Prevention of PID: avoid douching to reduce the chances of bacteria from entering the uterus and fallopian tubes from the vagina (douching has not been definitively proven to be associated with PID, but it is definitely worth avoiding because douching can lead to infection or yeast growth or bacteria), practice safe sex and use a condom.

Author:

Amelicheva Alena Aleksandrovna
medical editor

Publication date: February 8, 2022

Update date: September 6, 2022

Urethritis