What causes yellow vaginal discharge. Is yellow discharge always a sign of infection. When should you see a doctor for yellow discharge. How can you differentiate between normal and abnormal discharge.

Understanding Vaginal Discharge: What’s Normal and What’s Not

Vaginal discharge is a common and natural occurrence in women of reproductive age. It plays a crucial role in maintaining vaginal health by keeping the area clean and protecting it from infections. However, changes in the color, consistency, or odor of discharge can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue.

Normal vaginal discharge, often referred to as “leukorrhea,” is typically clear, white, off-white, or pale yellow in color. It should not have a strong odor and may vary in consistency and volume throughout the menstrual cycle. However, when discharge becomes yellow or green, it may be a cause for concern.

Characteristics of Normal Discharge

• Clear, white, or pale yellow color
• No strong odor
• Varies in consistency throughout the menstrual cycle
• Changes in volume are normal

Yellow Discharge: When Is It Considered Normal?

While yellow discharge can sometimes be a sign of infection, there are instances where it’s perfectly normal. Understanding these situations can help alleviate unnecessary worry.

Before Your Period

In the days leading up to menstruation, it’s common for discharge to become creamier and stickier than usual. During this time, it’s normal for the discharge to appear light or pale yellow in color. This change is due to hormonal fluctuations that occur as your body prepares for menstruation.

After Your Period

As your period comes to an end, you may notice that the blood begins to lighten, changing from red to brown. During this transition, it’s not uncommon to see discharge that is light brown or brownish-yellow. This is simply the result of old blood mixing with normal vaginal discharge.

Causes of Abnormal Yellow Discharge

While yellow discharge can be normal in some cases, it can also be a sign of an underlying health issue. Let’s explore some of the common causes of abnormal yellow discharge.

Yeast Infections

Yeast infections, also known as vaginal candidiasis or vulvo-vaginal candidiasis, can cause yellow, white, or off-white discharge that is thicker and heavier than normal. This discharge often has a clumpy texture, resembling cottage cheese.

Yeast infections are incredibly common, with an estimated 3 in 4 women experiencing at least one in their lifetime. While they can be uncomfortable, they are generally not a cause for serious concern.

Symptoms of a Yeast Infection

• Thick, creamy discharge with a cottage cheese-like texture
• Itching, burning, swelling, and/or redness around the vulva and vagina
• Painful or burning sensation during intercourse and urination

It’s worth noting that according to the CDC, nearly 20% of yeast infections do not cause any symptoms. This is particularly important for women trying to conceive, as yeast infections can affect vaginal pH levels, potentially making it more difficult for sperm to survive and reach an egg.

Treatment for Yeast Infections

Most yeast infections can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams, suppositories, or tablets. In more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger medication. To reduce your risk of developing yeast infections, maintain good vaginal hygiene, avoid tight clothing, urinate after sexual intercourse, and use chemical-free feminine products.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis, often referred to as “trich,” is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause yellow or yellowish-green discharge. This STI is caused by a parasite and can be passed along during sexual intercourse.

Symptoms of Trichomoniasis

• Yellow or yellowish-green discharge
• Increased volume of discharge, often thin or “frothy” in texture
• Foul-smelling odor
• Painful urination and sexual intercourse
• Itching or burning sensation around the vagina and vulva

It’s important to note that only about 30% of individuals with trichomoniasis experience symptoms. This underscores the importance of regular check-ups for sexually active individuals.

Treatment for Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is typically treated with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. To prevent trichomoniasis and other STIs, it’s recommended to use latex condoms during sexual activity.

Other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and Yellow Discharge

Trichomoniasis is not the only STI that can cause yellow discharge. Several other sexually transmitted infections can result in changes to vaginal discharge, including its color and consistency.

Common STIs That May Cause Yellow Discharge

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Genital warts
• Genital herpes
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Scabies
• Syphilis

Each of these STIs can present with different symptoms, and in some cases, may not show any symptoms at all. This is why regular STI testing is crucial for sexually active individuals, especially those with multiple partners or who engage in unprotected sex.

Yellow Discharge During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Pregnancy brings about numerous changes in a woman’s body, including changes in vaginal discharge. While some changes are normal, others may indicate a problem that requires medical attention.

Normal Discharge During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, it’s common to experience an increase in vaginal discharge. This discharge, known as leukorrhea, is typically thin, white, and mild-smelling. It’s your body’s way of maintaining a healthy vaginal environment and preventing infections from traveling up to the uterus.

When Yellow Discharge During Pregnancy Is Concerning

If you notice yellow discharge during pregnancy, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, it could be a sign of an infection. Pregnant women are more susceptible to yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis due to hormonal changes. These conditions can cause yellow or greenish discharge, often accompanied by itching, burning, or a foul odor.

It’s crucial for pregnant women to report any unusual discharge to their healthcare provider, as some infections can lead to complications if left untreated.

When to See a Doctor for Yellow Discharge

While some instances of yellow discharge are normal, there are times when it’s important to seek medical attention. Here are some situations that warrant a visit to your healthcare provider:

• The discharge is accompanied by a strong, foul odor
• You experience itching, burning, or irritation in the vaginal area
• The discharge is thick, chunky, or resembles cottage cheese
• You have pain during urination or sexual intercourse
• The discharge is accompanied by fever, abdominal pain, or pelvic pain
• You’ve had unprotected sex with a new partner or multiple partners
• You’re pregnant and experiencing any unusual discharge

Remember, early detection and treatment of infections can prevent more serious complications. Don’t hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure about changes in your vaginal discharge.

Prevention and Maintenance of Vaginal Health

Maintaining good vaginal health can help prevent many of the conditions that cause abnormal discharge. Here are some tips to keep your vaginal area healthy:

1. Practice good hygiene: Clean the external genital area with warm water and mild, unscented soap. Avoid douching, as it can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.
2. Wear breathable underwear: Choose cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting pants or pantyhose that can trap moisture.
3. Wipe from front to back: This prevents bacteria from the anal area from entering the vagina or urethra.
4. Practice safe sex: Use condoms to protect against STIs.
5. Avoid scented products: Scented tampons, pads, and vaginal deodorants can irritate the vagina and disrupt its natural balance.
6. Change out of wet clothes promptly: After swimming or exercising, change into dry clothes to prevent the growth of yeast and bacteria.
7. Maintain a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in probiotics can help maintain a healthy vaginal pH.

By following these guidelines and paying attention to changes in your body, you can maintain optimal vaginal health and catch any potential issues early.

Frequently Asked Questions About Yellow Discharge

To address some common concerns about yellow discharge, let’s review a few frequently asked questions:

Can stress cause yellow discharge?

While stress itself doesn’t directly cause yellow discharge, it can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections that may cause changes in vaginal discharge. Stress can also disrupt your menstrual cycle, which can affect the consistency and color of your discharge.

Is yellow discharge a sign of pregnancy?

Yellow discharge alone is not a reliable indicator of pregnancy. While pregnancy can cause changes in vaginal discharge, including an increase in volume, the typical pregnancy discharge (leukorrhea) is usually clear or milky white. If you suspect you might be pregnant, a pregnancy test and consultation with a healthcare provider are more reliable methods of confirmation.

Can certain foods cause yellow discharge?

Diet generally doesn’t directly affect the color of vaginal discharge. However, certain foods can influence your body’s pH levels, which might indirectly affect vaginal health. For instance, consuming a lot of sugary foods might increase your risk of developing a yeast infection, which can cause changes in discharge. Maintaining a balanced diet is important for overall vaginal health.

How long should I wait to see if yellow discharge clears up on its own?

If you notice yellow discharge that’s accompanied by other symptoms like itching, burning, or a strong odor, it’s best not to wait and see a healthcare provider promptly. However, if the yellow discharge is mild and not accompanied by other symptoms, you can monitor it for a few days. If it persists for more than a week or worsens, consult with a healthcare professional.

Can yellow discharge affect fertility?

Yellow discharge itself doesn’t directly affect fertility. However, if the discharge is due to an underlying infection, it could potentially impact fertility. Some infections can affect the reproductive organs or create an environment that’s less hospitable for sperm. If you’re trying to conceive and experiencing persistent yellow discharge, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider.

Understanding the nuances of vaginal discharge and recognizing when changes occur is an important aspect of women’s health. While yellow discharge can be normal in some circumstances, it’s crucial to be aware of accompanying symptoms and changes that might indicate an underlying issue. By maintaining good vaginal hygiene, practicing safe sex, and seeking medical attention when necessary, you can ensure optimal vaginal health and overall well-being.

What Does Yellow Discharge Mean? Common Questions Answered

What’s considered normal vaginal discharge?
When yellow discharge is considered normal
Other causes for yellow discharge
Yellow discharge during pregnancy
When to see a doctor for yellow discharge
Yellow discharge FAQ

We all know that it’s normal to have vaginal discharge. But what happens if that discharge is a color other than white or clear? 

In this article, we will be focusing on yellow discharge, including when it’s normal, when it’s not normal, and when you should seek advice from your doctor. 

What’s considered normal vaginal discharge?

Normal vaginal discharge, often referred to as “leukorrhea”, is clear, white, off-white, or pale or light yellow in color. It will not have a strong smell, and it can vary in consistency and volume throughout the menstrual cycle. 

Discharge is not considered normal if it undergoes a change in color or texture, and if it is also accompanied by other symptoms such as itchiness, pelvic pain, painful urination, or a foul-smelling odor.   

When yellow discharge is considered normal

It is possible for discharge to appear yellow in color. Here are a few cases where experiencing yellow discharge is completely normal. 

Before your period

In the days before your period, it is common for discharge to become creamier and stickier than normal. Alongside this change in texture, it’s normal for discharge at this time to appear light or pale yellow in color.

After your period

Towards the end of your period, you may notice that your period blood begins to lighten or change in color from red to brown. During this transition, it is also possible to see discharge that is a light brown or brownish-yellow. 

Other causes for yellow discharge

While it may be normal to see yellow discharge around the time of your period, there are cases where yellow discharge is not normal. Here is a look at a few underlying causes of abnormal discharge and what you can do about it. 

Yeast infection

Yellow, white, or off-white discharge that is thick, clumpy, and heavier than normal may be a sign of a yeast infection (also known as vaginal candidiasis or vulvo-vaginal candidiasis).  

Although yeast infections can cause uncomfortable symptoms, they are not necessarily cause for serious concern. You may even be surprised to learn that they’re actually quite common, with an estimated 3 in 4 women experiencing a vaginal yeast infection at least once during their lifetime. 

Symptoms

In addition to the yellowish, white, or off-white color, yeast infections are also often accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Thick, creamy texture that resembles cottage cheese
• Itching, burning, swelling, and/or redness around the vulva and vagina
• A painful, burning sensation during intercourse and urination

It’s important to note that according to the CDC, nearly 20% of yeast infections do not cause any symptoms at all. This is important to be aware of if you are trying to conceive, because while yeast infections do not cause infertility directly, an imbalance in pH levels may make it more difficult for your partner’s sperm to not only survive inside the vagina, but also reach an egg in the uterine tube.  

Treatment

To treat a yeast infection, doctors often recommend starting with over-the-counter creams, suppositories, and tablets. In severe cases, prescription-strength medication may be necessary. Additionally, maintaining good vaginal hygiene, avoiding tight clothes, peeing after sex, and using chemical-free feminine products will help to reduce your risk of developing a yeast infection. 

Trichomoniasis

Another potential cause of yellow discharge is trichomoniasis. Trichomoniasis, often called “trich”, is a type of sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can be passed along during intercourse. 

Trichomoniasis can cause frustrating and painful symptoms, and it may also increase your risk of contracting other sexually transmitted infections. 

Symptoms

In addition to yellow and yellowish-green discharge, trich can also cause the following symptoms: 

• Painful urination and sex
• Itchiness or burning sensation around the vagina and vulva
• Increased volume of discharge that may be thin or “frothy” in texture
• Foul-smelling odor

However, bear in mind that only 30% of individuals with trichomoniasis experience symptoms, which is why it’s important to have regular check-ups at your doctor if you are sexually active.  

Treatment

Treatment of trichomoniasis often involves antibiotics. The best way to prevent trichomoniasis is to use latex condoms when having sex.

STIs

In addition to trichomoniasis, there are a number of other STIs that can cause yellow discharge. STIs are simply infections that are passed along among sexual partners, the most common of which include: 

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Genital warts
• Genital herpes
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Scabies
• Syphilis
• Trichomoniasis

If left untreated, STIs can be potentially dangerous to you and your partner. For example, chlamydia and gonorrhea may lead to infertility, and others can lead to cancer or other serious health problems. 

Symptoms

In addition to yellow or yellowish-green discharge, other common symptoms of STIs include:

• Painful urination or intercourse
• Lumps, growths, blisters, sores, or rashes around the vagina and anus
• Vaginal bleeding

If you frequently have unprotected sex, it’s a good idea to have regular STI tests at your doctor’s office. This is because certain STIs, such as trichomoniasis, may not cause any physical symptoms. 

Treatment

Unfortunately, some STIs like herpes simplex virus, human papillomavirus (HPV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cannot be cured. Other STIs can easily be treated with antibiotics if caught early enough. Treatment will vary depending on the type of STI that you have, so always speak with your doctor if you think you may have an STI. 

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Yellow discharge is also a known symptom of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which is when there exists an infection throughout a woman’s reproductive organs. PID occurs when certain STIs (such as gonorrhea and chlamydia) are left untreated. 

PID is a serious condition and leads to fertility problems in approximately 1 out of every 8 cases. 

Symptoms

In addition to yellow, yellowish-green, and green discharge, PID can also cause the following symptoms:

• Painful urination or intercourse
• Burning sensation during urination or intercourse
• Bleeding during or after sex
• Spotting between periods
• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
• Fever and chills

Treatment

If diagnosed early, it is possible to cure PID with antibiotics, and in rare cases, it may require a hospital visit. However, bear in mind that treatment will not reverse any existing damage made from the original STI. It can however prevent further damage from occurring. 

The best way to prevent the development of PID is to never miss an annual pelvic exam and make sure to undergo STI testing if you are sexually active. This will help your doctor catch and cure any potentially harmful STIs early on before they become severe.  

Yellow discharge during pregnancy

It is also possible to experience yellow discharge during pregnancy. Here is a look at when it’s considered normal and abnormal. 

Normal yellow discharge (leukorrhea)

During pregnancy, you may notice that your body is producing more discharge than before. This is completely normal and it’s common for discharge during pregnancy to have a clear, white, milky-white, off-white, or pale yellow color. In terms of texture, it can vary throughout pregnancy, but oftentimes has a thicker and creamier texture than before pregnancy.  

Abnormal yellow discharge

If your pregnancy discharge is yellow, dark yellow, or yellowish-green, this is considered abnormal and could be a sign of infection. It is common to get yeast infections during pregnancy, however, it is also possible to get sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) during pregnancy as well, such as chlamydia, herpes, HIV, and trichomoniasis. 

STIs can be harmful to your pregnancy and developing fetus, so it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor if you are experiencing abnormal yellow discharge during pregnancy. 

When to see a doctor for yellow discharge

You should seek advice from a doctor if your yellow discharge is also accompanied by any of the following symptoms:

• Foul-smelling odor
• Itchiness or soreness in or around the vagina
• Pelvic pain
• Pain during urination or sex
• Increase in volume of discharge 
• Change in consistency of discharge to a texture resembling cottage cheese

Yellow discharge FAQs

Is it normal for discharge to dry yellow?

Yes, it is possible for normal yellow discharge to dry with a yellow appearance in your underwear. However, if your discharge is accompanied by pain or a foul-smelling odor, speak with your doctor as this could be a sign of something more serious. 

How do I get rid of yellow discharge?

If your yellow discharge is light or pale yellow in color, it is most likely normal and you do not need to do anything to “fix” or “get rid” of it. 

However, if your yellow discharge is also accompanied by pain or a foul-smelling odor, seek advice from your doctor immediately so that they can determine its cause and suggest methods for treatment. 

Can a UTI cause yellow discharge?

Yellow discharge is not typically associated with urinary tract infections (UTI). Instead, the most common symptoms of UTIs are painful and frequent urination, blood in urine, and pressure or cramping in the lower abdomen.

What You Need to Know

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common health issue that can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms. One symptom that many people may not be aware of is yellow discharge. In this blog post, we’ll explore the connection between UTIs and yellow discharge, and how Nao Medical can help you get the care you need.

What is a UTI?

A UTI is an infection that affects any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. UTIs are typically caused by bacteria, and can cause a range of symptoms, including:

• Pain or burning during urination
• Frequent urination
• Urgency to urinate
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
• Lower abdominal pain or discomfort

While these are the most common symptoms of a UTI, it’s important to note that not everyone experiences all of these symptoms. Some people may only experience one or two of these symptoms, while others may experience more severe symptoms.

Can a UTI Cause Yellow Discharge?

While yellow discharge is not a common symptom of a UTI, it can occur in some cases. Yellow discharge is typically a sign of an infection, and can be caused by a range of factors, including:

• Bacterial vaginosis
• Trichomoniasis
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea

If you are experiencing yellow discharge along with other symptoms of a UTI, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. A healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and provide the appropriate treatment.

How Nao Medical Can Help

At Nao Medical, we understand how uncomfortable and disruptive UTIs can be. That’s why we offer same-day appointments, minimal wait times, and exceptional care from our empathetic staff. Our technologically driven approach includes a comprehensive app and extensive after-hours virtual care, so you can get the care you need when you need it.

If you are experiencing symptoms of a UTI, including yellow discharge, don’t wait to get the care you need. Book an appointment with Nao Medical today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to prevent UTIs?

Some ways to prevent UTIs include drinking plenty of water, urinating frequently, wiping from front to back after using the bathroom, and avoiding irritating feminine products.

What is the treatment for a UTI?

Treatment for a UTI typically involves antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection. Your healthcare provider may also recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage symptoms.

Can UTIs be serious?

While most UTIs are not serious, they can lead to more severe complications if left untreated. These complications can include kidney damage, sepsis, and even death in rare cases.

Book an Appointment with Nao Medical

External Links:

• https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/uti.html
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470195/

Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered, construed or interpreted as legal or professional advice, guidance or opinion.

Urethritis

Urethritis in men and women: causes, symptoms and signs, effective methods of diagnosis and treatment

Urethritis is an inflammation of the urethra (urethra). Urethritis can occur in both women and men. Most often, infection of the urethra (urethra) occurs during sexual contact. Urethritis can occur against the background of various sexually transmitted diseases, and is often the main manifestation of a sexual infection. The main symptoms of urethritis are pain or burning when urinating and discharge from the urethra (urethra).
Treatment of urethritis is carried out depending on the cause of the disease and includes antibiotics, hygiene measures.

What is urethritis?

Urethritis is an inflammation of the urethra. Most often, due to the anatomical features of the structure of the urethra, urethritis occurs in women (the urethra in women is wider and shorter, as a result of which it is easier to become infected).
With urethritis, the walls of the urethra and its glands become inflamed. In the lumen of the urethra, purulent or bloody discharge accumulates, which are released drop by drop when pressing on the urethra or during urination.

What are the causes of urethritis?

As mentioned above, urethritis is an inflammation of the urethra, which occurs as a result of its infection with various microbes. Depending on the cause of urethritis (causative microbe), specific and nonspecific urethritis are isolated.
The cause of specific urethritis is certain sexually transmitted infections (STDs): gonorrhea, herpes, chlamydia, urogenital mycoplasmosis, trichomoniasis. These forms of urethritis are called specific, since they occur with some characteristic features for each case and require special treatment.
Non-specific urethritis is usually caused by streptococci, staphylococci, Escherichia coli and other bacteria. Regardless of the causative agent of the disease, nonspecific urethritis always proceeds in the same way and is treated according to a certain scheme.

Risk factors that contribute to the development of urethritis

Due to the fact that the urethra is located in close proximity to the anus, which serves as a constant source of microbes (causative agents of nonspecific urethritis), infection in the urethra is observed quite often, but infection alone is not enough to develop urethritis. Generally, in healthy people, immune defenses in the urethra block infection and prevent urethritis from developing. There are a number of factors that can reduce the immune defense of the whole body or immunity at the level of the urethra. It is these factors, in combination with infection, that contribute to the development of urethritis. As a rule, urethritis occurs against the background of:

• Genital injuries (most common during intercourse)
• Hypothermia of the human body (especially the perineum and genitals)
• Sexual promiscuity (a large number of sexual partners increases the risk of contracting a sexual infection)
• Improper diet, chronic fatigue, stress, lack of vitamins (reduce the body’s immune defenses)

Symptoms and signs of urethritis

The first signs and symptoms of urethritis appear hours or days after infection of the urethra with microbes. Symptoms of urethritis in men and women have their own characteristics.

Symptoms of urethritis in men

The main symptoms of acute urethritis in men are:

• Burning (itching) when urinating. Due to the anatomical features of the urethra in men, the burning sensation in urethritis in men is more pronounced than in women
• Pain when urinating
• Discharge from the urethra (purulent or bloody). As a rule, discharge with urethritis occurs in the morning. Most often, with urethritis, abundant discharge of a blue-green or yellowish color with an unpleasant odor is observed.
• Adhesion of the external opening of the urethra (mainly in the morning)

Acute urethritis is dangerous because sometimes (in mild cases) it occurs without obvious symptoms.
Often, with urethritis in men, the infection spreads to neighboring organs with the occurrence of prostatitis, pyelonephritis, cystitis.

Symptoms of urethritis in women

The main symptoms and signs of urethritis in women include:

• Discharge from the urethra (the nature of the discharge depends on the causative agent of urethritis, most often there is a greenish or white-yellow or bloody discharge with an unpleasant odor)
• Pain in the lower abdomen. As a rule, pain in urethritis in women is localized in the lower abdomen. Pain with urethritis in women, constant low intensity
• Burning (itching) in the urethra, redness of the outlet of the urethra.

Most often, the symptoms of urethritis in women appear several hours or days after sexual intercourse.
In view of the anatomical features of the structure of the urethra in women already described above, their urethritis is often associated with cystitis. Read more about the symptoms and treatment of cystitis in the Cystitis section.

General symptoms of urethritis

In acute urethritis, both men and women do not have an increase in body temperature, a decrease in appetite, weakness.

If left untreated, urethritis can become chronic. The main reasons that lead to severe urethritis include:

• Mistreatment of acute urethritis
• Spread of infection to neighboring organs. In acute urethritis, very often the infection in men spreads to the prostate gland (prostatitis), the penis. In women, as a rule, an infection with urethritis can go to the glands in the labia (Bartholin’s glands)
• Weakening of immunity (chronic infections, stress, overwork)

Candidal urethritis

Candidal urethritis occurs as a result of infection of the urethra with yeast fungi against the background of thrush.
Symptoms and signs of candidal urethritis are usually not very pronounced (itching or burning in the urethra, scanty cheesy white discharge from the urethra), discomfort felt in the lower abdomen and deep in the perineum.
Treatment of candidal urethritis is reduced to the use of antifungal drugs (ketoconazole, miconazole, etc.).

Diagnosis of acute urethritis

As a rule, 1 examination is enough for a patient to make a diagnosis of urethritis. To determine urethritis in a patient, a sample is taken, and then the sowing of discharge from the urethra. As a result of this examination, the cause of urethritis is identified, and the correct treatment is prescribed. Diagnosis and treatment of urethritis are carried out by urologists, gynecologists and andrologists.

Chronic urethritis

With inadequate or untimely treatment, urethritis can become chronic (chronic urethritis). As a rule, chronic urethritis is characterized by the same signs and symptoms, but less pronounced than acute urethritis (see above).
Chronic urethritis can last for quite a long time (several months, years) and can lead to narrowing and deformation of the urethra (urethral structure). In the presence of stricture (narrowing) of the urethra in chronic urethritis, most doctors will offer to perform bougienage (expansion) of the urethra with a special probe. This procedure is painless and can replace a complex operation to restore the patency of the urethra.

Treatment of urethritis in men and women

If you have symptoms and signs of urethritis, you should consult a doctor, self-treatment of urethritis is unacceptable.
First of all, with urethritis, it is necessary to follow a diet (spicy and salty foods, as well as alcohol, smoking, are excluded from the diet). In addition, with urethritis, patients should drink plenty of fluids (juices, cranberry juice).
Various drugs for the treatment of urethritis in men and women are used in the form of tablets and injections (shots). The main principles of treatment of patients with urethritis include:

• Antibiotic therapy (removal of the cause of the disease)
• Topical treatment of urethritis
• Improving the immunity of the human body

Medicines for urethritis

The main direction in the treatment of urethritis in men and women is the use of antibiotics. The appointment of antibiotics by a doctor is carried out taking into account the causative agent of urethritis. The dose of drugs for urethritis is selected by the doctor individually.
If the cause of urethritis in men and women is gonorrhea (or chlamydia), then Doxycycline + Deoxyribonuclease (25 mg for 6 days) is prescribed.
If the cause of urethritis in men and women is trichomoniasis, then patients are prescribed Trichopolum, Erycycline, Aminocaproic acid.
If the cause of urethritis in men and women turned out to be bacteria (living in the intestines), then the following antibiotics are prescribed: Ampicillin, Amoxiclav, Cephalosporins, Fluoroquinolones.
Sometimes with urethritis, the patient complains of severe pain during urination. At home, folk remedies can be used to eliminate pain in urethritis. To do this, you need to prepare a decoction of linden or chamomile flowers and rinse the outlet of the urethra with it.

Prevention of urethritis

In order to prevent the development of urethritis one should:

• Avoid exposure to hypothermia as little as possible
• Personal hygiene should be followed
• Immediately after sexual intercourse, thoroughly wash the genitals with soap and water and go “small”.
  

  ---

  Make an appointment

types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment of urethritis in women and men

Urethritis is an inflammation of the urethra (urethra). Urethritis is a very common urological disease.

Men and women suffer from urethritis equally often, however, due to the anatomical features of the urethra, symptoms of urethritis in men are more pronounced than in women.

Types of urethritis

Depending on the cause of the disease, there are:

• Specific urethritis due to sexual infection (gonococcus, chlamydia, trichomonas, mycoplasma, ureaplasma, rarely gardnerella). These pathogens can coexist with other bacteria, viruses.
• Non-specific urethritis resulting from the activity of opportunistic microflora – streptococci, staphylococci, Escherichia coli, fungi, etc.

Causes of urethritis

• Infection of the mucous membrane of the urethra.
• Trauma of the urethra (instrumental examinations and manipulations – cystoscopy, bladder catheterization, stone passage).
• Allergic reaction.
• Narrowing of the urethra (urethral stricture).
• Congestion in the pelvic area.
• Hypothermia.
• Various inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs.
• The predominance of spicy, sour, salty foods in the diet.

Symptoms of urethritis

In women

• Discharge from the urethra (the color of the discharge is determined by the type of pathogen; most often the discharge is greenish or white-yellow in color, in some cases it is bloody with an unpleasant odor).
• Pain in the lower abdomen of low intensity.
• Burning (itching) in the urethra when urinating.
• Redness of the urethral opening.
• Due to similar clinical symptoms, urethritis in women is often associated with cystitis.

Men

• Burning (itching), pain when urinating.
• Discharge from the urethra (most often the discharge is bluish-greenish or yellowish in color, in some cases it is bloody with an unpleasant odor).
• Adhesion of the external opening of the urethra (in the morning).
• If left untreated in both men and women, the symptoms of urethritis may become less pronounced or even disappear altogether after a while. However, this does not mean a cure – it only indicates the transition of the disease to a chronic form.

Chronic urethritis is latent, with relapses, manifested as discomfort in the urethra (itching, pain, burning) and the appearance of minor purulent-mucous discharge. After some time the symptoms of urethritis disappear again, and then everything repeats from the beginning.

Diagnosis of urethritis

• Urinalysis.
• Analysis of the night according to Nechiporenko.
• Microscopic smear for flora.
• Ultrasound of the prostate.
• Ultrasound of the kidneys.
• Bladder ultrasound.
• Urine culture with antibiotic susceptibility testing.

Treatment of urethritis

The insidiousness of urethritis lies in the fact that in the absence of treatment or with inadequate treatment (most often when patients take antibiotics on their own), the causative agent of the disease does not disappear anywhere. The infection remains in the prostate and seminal vesicles in men, and in the Bartholin glands and small glands of the vaginal vestibule in women.

It is enough hypothermia, excessive alcohol consumption, another sexual contact to cause a relapse of the disease and a new episode of inflammation of the urethra.

With each new relapse, inflammation captures more and more extensive “area” of our body, causing chronic prostatitis, vesiculitis, orchiepididymitis, balanoposthitis in men; and in women – vaginitis, vaginal dysbacteriosis, adnexitis, colpitis.

With a long course chronic urethritis men often have such a serious complication as urethral stricture – a narrowing of the lumen of the urethra, manifested by pain and discomfort during urination, a weak urine stream and the need to tighten the abdominal muscles in order to empty the bladder. Accordingly, the question of whether or not to treat urethritis is not worth it, the whole question comes down to the correct treatment of urethritis !

Main component treatment for urethritis are antibiotics. To choose the right antibiotic, you need to perform a bacteriological culture of urine with the determination of sensitivity to antibiotics. It must be remembered that the treatment of chronic urethritis is more laborious and lengthy than the treatment of acute urethritis .

Along with antibacterial therapy, instillations of drugs into the urethra, as well as immunostimulants, are used. Complication of urethritis – urethral stricture – is treated surgically (bougienage of the urethra with special metal dilators).