What are the most effective home remedies for urethritis. How can you relieve urethritis symptoms naturally. What causes inflammation of the urethra. When should you see a doctor for urethritis.

Understanding Urethritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

Urethritis is an inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. This condition can affect both men and women, though it presents differently in each gender. The most common causes of urethritis are sexually transmitted infections (STIs), particularly gonorrhea and chlamydia. However, other factors such as chemical irritants, trauma, or certain viruses can also lead to this condition.

Common Symptoms of Urethritis

The symptoms of urethritis can vary between individuals and may differ based on gender. Some of the most common signs include:

• Burning or pain during urination
• Increased urgency or frequency of urination
• Discharge from the urethra
• Pain or discomfort in the pelvic area
• Itching or irritation around the urethral opening

Is urethritis always symptomatic? No, in some cases, particularly in women, urethritis can be asymptomatic, meaning it presents no noticeable symptoms. This underscores the importance of regular check-ups and STI screenings for sexually active individuals.

Diagnosing Urethritis

Diagnosing urethritis typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history review, and laboratory tests. Your healthcare provider may perform the following:

1. Urinalysis to check for signs of infection
2. Swab tests to collect samples from the urethra or cervix
3. Blood tests to check for specific STIs
4. In some cases, a urethral culture may be necessary

Can urethritis be confused with other conditions? Yes, the symptoms of urethritis can sometimes be mistaken for other urinary tract issues, such as bladder infections or interstitial cystitis. This is why proper diagnosis by a healthcare professional is crucial.

The Role of Natural Remedies in Managing Urethritis

While medical treatment is often necessary for urethritis, especially when caused by bacterial infections, some natural remedies may help alleviate symptoms and support overall urinary tract health. It’s important to note that these remedies should not replace professional medical advice or prescribed treatments.

1. Hydration and Urinary Health

Staying well-hydrated is crucial for urinary tract health. Drinking plenty of water can help flush out harmful bacteria and reduce inflammation. How much water should you drink? Aim for at least 8 glasses (64 ounces) of water per day, or more if you’re physically active or in hot weather.

2. Cranberry Products for Urinary Support

Cranberries have long been associated with urinary tract health. They contain compounds that may help prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract walls. While not a cure for urethritis, cranberry juice or supplements might offer some protective benefits.

Are all cranberry products equally effective? No, it’s important to choose pure, unsweetened cranberry juice or high-quality supplements. Sweetened cranberry cocktails often contain too much sugar and not enough of the beneficial compounds.

3. Probiotics and Urethral Health

Probiotics, the beneficial bacteria that support digestive health, may also play a role in urinary tract health. Some studies suggest that certain probiotic strains can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the urogenital area, potentially reducing the risk of urinary tract infections and supporting overall urethral health.

4. Herbal Remedies for Inflammation

Several herbs have anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate urethritis symptoms:

• Turmeric: Known for its potent anti-inflammatory effects
• Garlic: Has natural antimicrobial properties
• Green tea: Rich in antioxidants that may support urinary health

How should these herbs be consumed? They can be incorporated into your diet or taken as supplements. However, always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you’re taking medications.

5. Sitz Baths for Symptom Relief

A sitz bath, which involves sitting in warm water that covers the pelvic area, can provide relief from urethritis symptoms. This simple remedy can help soothe inflammation and reduce discomfort. Adding Epsom salts to the bath may offer additional benefits due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

Conventional Treatment Options for Urethritis

While natural remedies can provide symptomatic relief, it’s crucial to understand that urethritis often requires medical intervention, especially when caused by bacterial infections. The treatment approach will depend on the underlying cause of the condition.

Antibiotic Therapy

For bacterial urethritis, antibiotics are the primary treatment. The specific antibiotic prescribed will depend on the causative organism. Common antibiotics used include:

• Azithromycin
• Doxycycline
• Ceftriaxone

How long does antibiotic treatment typically last? The duration can vary, but most courses of antibiotics for urethritis last between 7 to 14 days. It’s crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.

Antiviral Medications

In cases where urethritis is caused by a viral infection, such as herpes simplex virus, antiviral medications may be prescribed. These can help manage symptoms and reduce the duration of the outbreak.

Pain Management

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and discomfort associated with urethritis. In some cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe stronger pain medication if needed.

Preventing Urethritis: Key Strategies for Urinary Health

Prevention is always better than cure, and this holds true for urethritis as well. By adopting certain lifestyle habits and practices, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing this condition.

Safe Sexual Practices

Given that many cases of urethritis are caused by sexually transmitted infections, practicing safe sex is crucial. This includes:

• Consistent use of condoms during sexual activity
• Regular STI screenings for sexually active individuals
• Open communication with sexual partners about sexual health

How often should you get tested for STIs? The frequency of STI testing depends on various factors, including your sexual activity, number of partners, and risk factors. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine an appropriate testing schedule for your situation.

Proper Hygiene Practices

Maintaining good hygiene can help prevent urethritis and other urinary tract issues:

1. Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom (especially important for women)
2. Urinate after sexual activity to help flush out any bacteria
3. Avoid using harsh soaps or douches in the genital area
4. Wear breathable, cotton underwear

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Certain lifestyle factors can impact your urinary tract health and potentially increase your risk of urethritis:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
• Avoid holding urine for long periods
• Manage stress levels, as chronic stress can affect immune function
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

Can diet really impact urinary tract health? Yes, a healthy diet can support your immune system and overall health, which in turn can help prevent infections, including those that cause urethritis.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Urethritis

While some cases of urethritis may resolve on their own or with home remedies, it’s important to know when professional medical care is necessary. Prompt treatment can prevent complications and reduce the risk of spreading infections to sexual partners.

Red Flags: When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Persistent or severe pain during urination
• Discharge from the urethra that doesn’t improve or worsens
• Blood in the urine or semen
• Fever or chills
• Lower abdominal pain or pelvic discomfort
• Symptoms that persist for more than a few days despite home remedies

Is it necessary to see a doctor even if symptoms are mild? Yes, even mild symptoms of urethritis should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, especially if you’re at risk for STIs or if symptoms persist.

Potential Complications of Untreated Urethritis

If left untreated, urethritis can lead to several complications:

1. Spread of infection to other parts of the urinary or reproductive system
2. Increased risk of contracting or transmitting HIV
3. Fertility issues in both men and women
4. Chronic pelvic pain
5. Reactive arthritis (in rare cases)

Can urethritis resolve on its own? While some mild cases of non-infectious urethritis may improve without treatment, it’s always safer to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.

Living with Urethritis: Coping Strategies and Support

Dealing with urethritis can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. Understanding how to manage the condition and where to find support can make a significant difference in your quality of life.

Managing Symptoms Day-to-Day

In addition to following your prescribed treatment plan, there are several strategies you can employ to manage urethritis symptoms in your daily life:

• Use a heating pad on your lower abdomen to relieve discomfort
• Wear loose-fitting clothing to reduce irritation
• Avoid foods and drinks that may irritate the bladder, such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga

How long does it typically take for urethritis symptoms to improve with treatment? While individual experiences may vary, many people start to feel better within a few days of starting treatment. However, it’s crucial to complete the entire course of medication as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.

Emotional and Psychological Support

The emotional impact of urethritis, particularly when caused by STIs, shouldn’t be overlooked. It’s normal to experience feelings of anxiety, embarrassment, or stress. Consider the following support options:

1. Speak openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns
2. Join support groups or online forums for individuals with similar experiences
3. Seek counseling or therapy if you’re struggling to cope
4. Educate yourself about the condition to feel more in control

Is it common to feel anxious or depressed when dealing with urethritis? Yes, it’s not uncommon to experience emotional distress when dealing with any health condition, especially those affecting intimate areas of the body. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Urethritis in Special Populations: Considerations and Approaches

Urethritis can affect individuals of all ages and backgrounds, but certain populations may require special considerations in terms of diagnosis, treatment, and management.

Urethritis in Pregnancy

Pregnant women with urethritis require careful management to ensure both maternal and fetal health. Some key points to consider include:

• Certain antibiotics commonly used to treat urethritis may not be safe during pregnancy
• Untreated urethritis in pregnancy can lead to complications such as preterm labor or low birth weight
• Regular prenatal check-ups are crucial for early detection and treatment of urinary tract issues

Are there safe treatment options for urethritis during pregnancy? Yes, there are antibiotics that are considered safe for use during pregnancy. Your healthcare provider will choose the most appropriate treatment based on the specific cause of urethritis and the stage of pregnancy.

Pediatric Urethritis

While less common in children, urethritis can occur in pediatric populations. Some important considerations include:

1. Non-infectious causes, such as chemical irritants, are more common in children
2. Diagnosis may be challenging as children may have difficulty articulating symptoms
3. Treatment approaches may need to be adjusted based on the child’s age and the cause of urethritis

How is urethritis in children typically diagnosed? Diagnosis often involves a combination of physical examination, urine tests, and sometimes imaging studies. In some cases, specialists such as pediatric urologists may be involved in the diagnostic process.

Urethritis in Older Adults

Older adults may face unique challenges when it comes to urethritis:

• Symptoms may be attributed to other age-related urinary issues, leading to delayed diagnosis
• Underlying health conditions or medications may complicate treatment
• Immune system changes with age can affect susceptibility to infections

Is urethritis more common in older adults? While urethritis can occur at any age, certain risk factors for urinary tract issues, such as enlarged prostate in men or vaginal atrophy in women, become more common with age. This can potentially increase the risk of urethritis in older populations.

Urethritis + 5 Natural Ways to Relieve Urethritis Symptoms

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This Dr. Axe content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure factually accurate information.

With strict editorial sourcing guidelines, we only link to academic research institutions, reputable media sites and, when research is available, medically peer-reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) are clickable links to these studies.

The information in our articles is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice.

This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by our trained editorial staff. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) are clickable links to medically peer-reviewed studies.

Our team includes licensed nutritionists and dietitians, certified health education specialists, as well as certified strength and conditioning specialists, personal trainers and corrective exercise specialists. Our team aims to be not only thorough with its research, but also objective and unbiased.

The information in our articles is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice.

By Katherine Brind’Amour, PhD, MS

July 29, 2018

Urethritis is inflammation of the tube that carries urine from the bladder to outside the body. It can be caused by infections, trauma or chemical irritants.

Most cases of urethritis require medication to heal and avoid long-term complications. However, you can also try some natural approaches to relieve symptoms at home.

What Is Urethritis?

Urethritis is inflammation of the urethra. The urethra is the tube you pee through — it carries urine out of the body. There are several possible causes of urethritis.

Sexually transmitted infections are the most common cause of urethritis. These cases are usually broken into two main types:

• Gonococcal urethritis — This is caused by the gonorrhea bacteria and makes up about 20 percent of infectious cases.
• Nongonoccocal urethritis — This is caused by bacteria other than gonorrhea but is still infectious. It causes about 80 percent of cases.

Cases caused by something other than bacteria or viruses are noninfectious urethritis. They are rare but can happen after injury or irritation to the urethra. This can be caused by urinary catheters, spermicide, antiseptic or other chemicals.

Urethritis is very common. About 4 million Americans are affected each year, and worldwide more than 150 million cases are reported per year. The problem is believed to be significantly underreported as well. (1)

Urethritis itself is not considered a sexually transmitted disease, but it can be spread by sexual contact if the infection causing it (such as gonorrhea or chlamydia) is spread.

Signs and Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of urethritis are different for men and women. The most common symptom for both is pain while peeing and feeling an increased urge to pee. However, some people have no symptoms at all. It is most common in women. This is called asymptomatic urethritis. Still others have symptoms that are actually caused by a different condition, such as a urinary tract infection, urethral diverticulum, urethral prolapse or urethral caruncle.

Urethritis in men may cause symptoms that include: (2)

• Burning or pain while peeing
• Frequent or urgent need to pee
• Blood in the urine or semen
• Itchy, painful or swollen penis
• Discharge from the penis
• Enlarged groin lymph nodes
• Pain during sex or ejaculation
• Fever (rarely)

Urethritis symptoms in women include: (2, 3)

• Burning or pain while peeing
• Frequent or urgent need to pee
• Peeing only small amounts at a time
• Cloudy or foul-smelling pee
• Pain in the lower belly area
• Pelvic pain
• Pain during sex
• Vaginal discharge
• Fever and chills 

Causes and Risk Factors

There are several main causes of urethritis. The most common is a bacterial infection. In some cases, the cause is not known. These cases may be considered urethral syndrome instead of urethritis. The general list of possible urethritis causes includes: (2, 4)

• Bacteria such as E. coli and the strains that cause chlamydia and gonorrhea
• Parasites such as those that cause trichomoniasis
• Viruses such as herpes simplex virus, human papillomavirus (HPV) and cytomegalovirus
• Trauma to the urethra, from a catheter or injury
• Irritation from chemicals found in spermicide, contraceptive jelly or foam, soaps or other topical products

It is not unusual for urethritis to be caused by more than one problem (for example, multiple bacteria strains) at once, especially in women. There are also cases of urethritis with unknown cause.

Risk factors for urethritis include: (2)

• Being female
• Being a male age 20 to 35
• Sexual activity that puts you at increased risk of a sexually transmitted infection. These include:
  • Having numerous sexual partners
  • Having sex without a condom
  • A history of sexually transmitted disease 

Conventional Treatment

Diagnosis of urethritis involves a physical exam to check for pain, swelling, discharge or tenderness. The health care provider may also order blood or urine tests to check for bacteria, viruses and other problems. You may be tested for HIV and syphilis. In women, a pregnancy test or pelvic ultrasound may also be done. Once the cause of inflammation is known, conventional treatment will be determined. Treatment varies by the cause of the condition and typically includes the following: (2, 4, 5, 6)

• For bacterial urethritis: You can expect a prescription for antibiotics and possibly a pain reliever. This helps ease pain, fight the infection and reduce your risk of passing the infection along to others.
  • These antibiotics include azithromycin, doxycycline, levofloxacin, ofloxacin and erythromycin. Most of these are seven-day courses of treatment, but azithromycin is a single dose.
  • If you have infectious urethritis, your partner should go in for testing and treatment as well.
  • While you are being treated, and for at least one week after, you should avoid sex or use condoms to avoid passing the infection to others.
  • Always take the full course of antibiotics, even if you start to feel better after a few days.
  • If your infection doesn’t clear up after taking antibiotics, you may be prescribed different antibiotics. Alternatively, the health care provider may search for other causes, such as a virus, trauma or topical problem.
• For viral urethritis: If there is an antiviral medication available to fight the type of virus you have, you may receive it. For example, acyclovir treats herpes simplex. Because test results take some time to come back, you may be prescribed antibiotics to take until the true cause is known.
• For temporary or mild urethritis caused by spermicide, soap, etc.: No treatment may be needed as symptoms may go away on their own, particularly once you stop using the product. However, if the pain or symptoms continue more than a day or two, or if they are joined by symptoms such as a fever or pain in the belly or back, nausea, or vomiting, seek care immediately.
  • You may be advised to stop using spermicides or other topical contraceptives.
  • It may be suggested that you avoid or limit vigorous sexual activity.
  • You may be told to increase the amount of water you drink.
  • If you use scented body products or soaps, you may be advised to switch to gentle, unscented products.
• For urethritis caused by injury or trauma: Depending on the cause of injury, you may require antibiotics to prevent or treat infection. If you have an item lodged in your penis, you may need both medication and professional medical assistance in removing it. In some cases, a health care professional may decide you do not need treatment for infection and may be able to wait for the inflammation to go away on its own.

Your doctor may also recommend prescription medication to ease burning and pain, or an over-the-counter pain reliever or anti-inflammatory. In most cases, urethritis can be cured by treating the underlying condition. However, sometimes symptoms last more than a few weeks or come and go. Urethritis that lasts six weeks or more is called chronic urethritis.

Untreated urethritis can lead to infections in other organs, with serious complications. Once it spreads, infection can be much harder to treat and symptoms may be much more painful or severe. Urethritis can also cause scarring in the urethra (called urethral stricture) or pelvis (causing pelvic inflammatory disease), which can lead to fertility problems. If the infection spreads to the blood and causes sepsis, it can be deadly. If your case is caused by a sexually transmitted infection, you are also at greater risk for urethral cancer.  

How to Manage Symptoms

In addition to following a health care professional’s advice for your urethritis treatment, you may wish to consider these natural options for symptom management: (7)

1. Drink lots of water

A publication by American Family Physician recommends that people with urethritis should drink plenty of water during and after treatment. (8) Drinking a generous amount of water each day helps flush bacteria out of the urethra, reduces the concentration of bacteria in the bladder and urine, and can reduce your chances of future infections. This is particularly important for women, who have a shorter urethra than men. (9)

The standard recommendation of about eight glasses of water per day is usually enough. Another option for calculating your minimum need is drinking a quart for every 50 pounds of body weight. You may need to drink more in hot weather or if you exercise. Spread your drinking out during the day, with the goal of urinating about once every 90 minutes. This means you’re regularly emptying your bladder and flushing out the urethra. (10)

2. Take care with hygiene

Some cases of urethritis are caused by bacteria from the anus, such as E. coli, getting into the urethra. Although most cases of urethritis don’t result from poor hygiene, taking good care of your genitals can help relieve symptoms in some cases and can help prevent future infections. These tips may help: (7, 11)

• Wash your genital area daily with water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Gently pat the area dry.
• In general, avoid scented body wash, soap, lotion and other products you apply on or near your genitals.
• Wipe from front to back to avoid moving stool into the urethra.
• Take showers instead of baths. If you do bathe, don’t add bubble bath, salts, shampoos, soaps or other things into the water.
• Don’t hold back when you feel you have to pee. Keeping urine in the bladder and urethra allows bacteria to accumulate.
• Don’t use genital deodorants, sprays or scented pads or underwear.
• Do not douche.
• Wear loose clothing and cotton underwear.

3. Adjust your sexual activity

The majority of cases of urethritis result from sexually transmitted infections and can be passed along to other people. Adjusting your sexual habits may help relieve symptoms and can also keep you from spreading the infection. Consider these recommendations: (7)

• Avoid sex while you have symptoms, during treatment and for a full seven days after you finish treatment. If you still have symptoms one week after completing treatment, call a health care professional and continue to avoid sex.
• If you do have sex, use a condom to avoid passing the infection to your partner.
• Use water-soluble lubricant without fragrances or dyes.
• Avoid spermicides, contraceptive jellies or foams, particularly if they have fragrances or chemicals that caused the irritation.
• Avoid trauma to the urethra by reducing or not taking part in vigorous sexual activity.

You can also reduce your chances of getting urethritis again by following these tips for safer sex: (4, 8)

• Get tested frequently for sexually transmitted infections if you have multiple partners.
• Limit your number of partners.
• Do not trade sex for money or drugs.
• Use a condom if you are not in a monogamous relationship with someone who is also infection-free.
• Do not have sex after drinking alcohol or using drugs.
• Go pee after having sex.

4. Tweak your diet

The American Academy of Family Physicians suggests that even though dietary changes aren’t confirmed as impacting urethritis, they may help some people. There is also evidence that diet impacts people with similar conditions affecting the urinary tract, such as interstitial cystitis. You can try adjusting what you eat and drink to see if it eases the pain in your urethra. Options include: (7, 12)

• Avoiding carbonated beverages, tea, fruit juice, alcohol and caffeine
• Limiting high-acid foods and drinks, including cranberry juice, tomato products, lemon juice and other citrus drinks
• Avoiding spicy foods, horseradish, vinegar, chili and peppers
• Eliminate artificial sweeteners and chocolate from your diet
• Limit highly spiced foods, such as Mexican, Thai and Indian cuisine
• Emphasize more water, milk, low-acid fruits (bananas, pears, honeydew, watermelon) and vegetables (cruciferous veggies, mushrooms, peas, squash and potatoes), meat, poultry and seafood, oats and rice, and snacks such as pretzels and popcorn

You can also try tracking your diet and symptoms to note if your urethritis gets worse after eating or drinking certain things. If you have had gut trouble from taking antibiotics in the past or if you are worried about overall bacterial balance, ask your health care provider about adding yogurt or a probiotic to your diet as well.

5. Consider herbal remedies

Natural remedies have long been used to treat irritation and infection in the urinary tract. Since most cases of urethritis are caused by sexually transmitted infections, you should see a health care provider for evaluation and medication if needed. If you are interested in trying herbal remedies or supplements to see if they help your symptoms, discuss them with your health care provider first. Some herbs and supplements can interact with medications or cause health problems in some people.

The following natural remedies have been used to ease urinary inflammation and infection-related symptoms:

• Cranberry. Although juice is now typically not considered helpful, standardized cranberry capsules have a high concentration of proanthocyanidins (PACs), which may help your body ease infection risk. (4)
• Agathosma betulina leaves (Buchu) or Arctostaphylos uva-ursi leaves (Bearberry). Both of these are reportedly effective for fighting infection in the urinary system. “The Complete Medicinal Herbal: A Practical Guide to the Healing Properties of Herbs” recommends combining Buchu with couchgrass and yarrow for infusions or capsules. It also recommends adding corn silk to the concoction to ease burning. (13)
• Althaea officinalis leaves (marshmallow) has also been recommended for its use with urethritis. It is used in infusions and tinctures and can be combined with yarrow and buchu. (13)
• Whole-root, hot water extract preparations of Uvaria afzalii and Anthocliesta djalonensis were tested in the lab against non-gonococcal urethritis and found to be effective at killing many strains of bacteria known to cause the condition. (14)
• Hydrastis canadensis (goldenseal), Echineceae purpura (echinacea) and Equisetum arvense (horsetail) may also be useful. Some natural medicine research and traditional medical practice has found these and most of the herbs listed above to be at least somewhat effective at reducing inflammation, fighting infection, boosting the immune system or helping the body flush bacteria from the urinary system. (15)

Precautions

• The vast majority of urethritis cases require antibiotic treatment. Do not attempt to self-treat urethritis unless a trained health care professional has told you it is safe to do so.
• If you are prescribed antibiotics, take the entire course prescribed to you.
• In some cases, symptoms remain after treatment. If you do not feel better within one week of completing treatment, contact your health care provider again for follow-up.
• If you develop a fever, nausea or vomiting, pain in your pelvis or belly, or any serious change in symptoms, seek emergency care immediately. These may indicate the infection has spread to other parts of your body.
• If you suspect you have urethritis, do not delay seeking care. Untreated urethritis can cause fertility problems and/or allow the spread of infection to other people or to other parts of your body, which can be deadly.
• Do not add herbs or supplements to your regimen without first consulting a health care professional. Many herbs and supplements can interact with medications and body processes. This can change how well your prescribed medications work and result in dangerous health side effects.
• If your case of urethritis is caused by a sexually transmitted infection, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, the diagnosis will be tracked by public health departments and you will be asked to provide the names or contact information for all of your recent sexual partners. Providing this information honestly and accurately is critical to protecting the health of these people.                                                                               

Final Thoughts

• Urethritis is inflammation of the tube that carries pee out of the body (the urethra). It is a very common infection.
• Most cases of urethritis are caused by sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, herpes and others.
• Conventional treatment for urethritis usually involves a course of antibiotics. If they are ineffective, urethritis treatment without antibiotics may include antivirals, changes to hygiene or sexual practices, or over-the-counter pain and anti-inflammatory medicines.
• If you are interested in a urethritis home remedy, be sure to consult a health care professional first. Left untreated, urethritis can cause complications that can lead to fertility problems or serious infections, which can be deadly.
• With treatment, urethritis symptoms usually disappear in a week or two. However, during treatment and for a full week afterward, you should avoid having unprotected sex. Any recent sexual partners should also be tested if your case is caused by a sexually transmitted infection.

5 Natural Strategies That May Help Relieve Urethritis Symptoms 

1. Drinking lots of water
2. Taking good care with hygiene
3. Adjusting your sexual activity
4. Tweaking your diet
5. Considering specific herbal remedies

Read Next: Bladder Cancer (+ 6 Natural Ways to Help Cancer Treatment)

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Urethral inflammation

Urethritis is an infection and inflammation of the lining of the urethra, the narrow tube that carries urine out of the body. In men, the urethra also carries semen. Urethritis is usually caused when bacteria from the anus travel to the urethra. The infection may affect the bladder, prostate, and reproductive organs. It may also be caused by a sexually transmitted disease (STD), such as herpes or chlamydia.

Urethritis can happen in men and women of all ages. Women, however, are at higher risk because the urethra is closer to the anus.

Signs and Symptoms

There may be no symptoms of urethritis, particularly in women. When there are, symptoms may include:

In men:

• Burning during urination
• Pus or whitish, mucous discharge from the penis
• Burning or itching around the opening of the penis
• Blood in the urine or semen

In women:

• Abdominal pain
• Painful urination
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Fever and chills
• Frequent, urgent urination

What Causes It?

• Bacteria and other organisms entering the urethra
• Bruising during sexual intercourse (in women)
• Infection reaching the urethra from the prostate gland or through the penis opening (in men)
• Bacterial infection after you have taken a course of antibiotics
• Reiter syndrome
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhea, herpes simplex virus, or HIV and AIDS

What to Expect at Your Doctor’s Office

Your doctor will examine your genitals, do laboratory tests on a urine sample, and take a specimen of mucus from inside the urethra and, in women, the vagina.

Treatment Options

• Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to get rid of the bacteria causing the infection.
• All sex partners should be treated.
• You should not have sex until you complete treatment, because you can still have an infection even after your symptoms go away.

Prevention

• Limit your number of sexual partners.
• Always use condoms.
• If you have symptoms, or think you have an infection, seek treatment immediately and notify all sexual partners.
• Practice good personal hygiene.

Drug Therapies

Depending on the cause of the infection, your doctor may prescribe one of the following treatments:

• Amoxicillin
• Ampicillin
• Ciprofloxacin (Cipro)
• Levofloxacin (Levaquin)
• Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (Bactrim, Septra)

Complementary and Alternative Therapies

Nutrition, herbs, and homeopathic remedies can help your body fight infection, relieve pain, and strengthen the urinary system. Always tell your doctor about the herbs and supplements you are using. Complementary therapies are best used in conjunction with conventional medical care as part of a coordinated approach among your health care providers to affect the best outcomes.

Nutrition and Supplements

• Cranberries contain substances that may keep bacteria from sticking to the urethra. Preliminary evidence suggests that drinking cranberry juice daily may help prevent urinary tract infections, especially in women who get infections often.
• Avoid caffeine and other stimulants.
• Drink 6 to 8 glasses of filtered water daily.

Herbs

Herbs are a way to strengthen and tone the body’s systems. As with any therapy, you should work with your doctor before starting treatment. You may use herbs as dried extracts (capsules, powders, or teas), glycerites (glycerine extracts), or tinctures (alcohol extracts). Unless otherwise indicated, make teas with 1 tsp. (5 g) herb per cup of hot water. Steep covered 5 to 10 minutes for leaves or flowers, and 10 to 20 minutes for roots. Drink 2 to 4 cups per day. You may use tinctures alone or in combination as noted.

• Cranberry
  (
  Vaccinium macrocarpon
  ). Supplements to help prevent urethritis and urinary tract infections. You may also drink 8 to 16 ounces of unsweetened cranberry juice daily. Cranberry supplements or juice may increase the risk of bleeding, especially if you take blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin) or clopidogrel (Plavix). People with kidney stones and pregnant or breastfeeding women should not take cranberry supplements. People who are allergic to aspirin should not take large amounts of cranberry supplements. Cranberry can interact with a number of medications. Ask your doctor before taking cranberry supplements.
• Bromelain
  (
  Ananus comosus
  ). For pain and inflammation. Bromelain can increase the risk of bleeding, especially if you already take blood thinners. People who are allergic to pineapple should not take bromelain. Ask your doctor before taking bromelain.

Homeopathy

Some of the most common remedies used for urethritis are listed below. Usually, the dose is 3 to 5 pellets of a 12X to 30C remedy every 1 to 4 hours until symptoms improve.

• Staphysagria
  . For urinary infections associated with sexual intercourse.
• Apis mellifica
  . For stinging pains that are made worse by warmth.
• Cantharis
  . For intolerable urging with “scalding” urine.
• Sarsaparilla
  . For burning after urination.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture may help strengthen your overall immune system and help relieve pain from urethritis.

Following Up

If your urethritis was caused by a sexually transmitted disease (STD), your sexual partners may need to be treated as well. Possible complications for men include:

• Cystitis
• Epididymitis
• Prostatitis

Possible complications for women include:

• Cystitis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Fertility problems
• Other gynecological problems

Special Considerations

STDs can cause permanent damage to reproductive organs and infertility in both sexes. They can also cause problems during pregnancy, premature delivery, low birth weight, and infections in newborns.

Supporting Research

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Arch Intern Med
. 2011;171(14):1270-1278.

Berntsson M, Tunback P. Clinical and microscopic signs of cervicitis and urethritis: correlation with Chlamydia trachomatis infection in female STI patients.
Acta Derm Venerol
. 2013;93(2):230-233.

Cabrera C, Artacho R, Gimenez R. Beneficial effects of green tea — a review.
J Am Coll Nutr
. 2006;25(2):79-99.

Cvetnic Z, Vladimir-Knezevic S. Antimicrobial activity of grapefruit seed and pulp ethanolic extract.
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. 2004;54(3):243-250.

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. 2006;4(2):261-275.

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Curr Gastroenterol Rep
. 2005;7(4):308-316.

Gonclaves C, Dinis T, Batista MT. Antioxidant properties of proanthocyanidins of Uncaria tomentosa bark decoction: a mechanism for anti-inflammatory activity.
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. 2005;66(1):89-98.

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. 2005;5(4):783-793.

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Phytochemistry
. 2005;66(1):5-29.

Ito S, Yasuda M, Seike K, et al. Clinical and microbiological outcomes in treatment of men with non-gonococcal urethritis with a 100mg twice-daily dose regimen of sitafloxacin.
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. 2012;18(3):414-418.

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. 2005;294(3):351-358.

Maeda S, Tamaki M, Kubota Y, Nguyen PB, Yasuda M, Deguchi T. Treatment of men with urethritis negative for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasma hominis, Ureaplasma parvum, and Ureaplasma Urealyticum.
Int J Urol
. 2007;14(5):422-425.

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. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2015.

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. 2015;15:294.

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👆 Effective treatment of urethritis with folk remedies at home

Urethritis is an inflammation covering the walls of the urinary canal. The disease affects men and women, and all kinds of pharmaceutical preparations are used for treatment, but folk remedies also give good results. They are especially effective in the early stages of the development of urethritis in men or women, but in the later stages they are used as adjuvant therapy.

• Universal urethritis
• Women’s folk remedies
• Men’s products for urethritis

Universal remedies

For the treatment of chronic urethritis found in men and women, you can use universal folk remedies. Among them is an infusion of the roots of creeping wheatgrass. It helps fight inflammation in the urinary tract and is often used against other bladder conditions.

This home remedy for urethritis, including chronic urethritis, requires 4 tablespoons of crushed roots. Pour a glass of cool water and leave to brew for 12 hours in a dark and cool place. Strain and pour the rhizomes with another glass of boiling water. Leave for 10 minutes, filter and mix both tinctures. Drink ½ cup up to three to four times a day.

When urethritis is accompanied by severe pain during urination, you will need a folk remedy in the form of a decoction of linden flowers. To prepare it, you need 2 tablespoons of flowers, which you need to pour a couple of glasses of hot water. Put on a small fire and boil for 10 minutes, then cool and strain. Try to drink the resulting infusion before going to bed, but if it doesn’t work out, use at least a glass.

Another universal remedy for the symptoms of urethritis in men and women is a tincture of cornflower flowers. It will take one spoonful of a dry plant, which must be poured with a glass of hot species and insisted for an hour. Next, you need to strain the tincture and take a couple of spoons three times a day. The main thing is to use this folk remedy for inflammation of the urinary canal before eating.

Parsley can be used to treat non-specific urethritis in both men and women. It will take 80 g of greens, which must be chopped and poured with milk (200-300 ml). put this folk remedy in the oven, but do not heat it up too much. It is necessary to melt the milk, and then strain the prepared mixture and use two tablespoons every hour for oral administration.

Parsley can be used as another home remedy for urethritis. You will need a spoonful of crushed greens, which we fill with half a liter of water and leave to infuse in a warm place (preferably overnight). In the morning, filter and consume three tablespoons every hour and a half.

Folk remedies for women

For the treatment of acute urethritis, douches and baths are used as commonly available folk remedies. Pharmaceutical chamomile is suitable, which has an antimicrobial effect and relieves inflammation, as well as quickly healing inflamed mucous membranes. The duration of exposure should be 5-10 minutes. To prepare a healing solution, you will need 2 tablespoons of chamomile flowers and 200 ml of boiling water. Fill the plant with water, put on a small fire to boil for 15 minutes. After cooling, strain and add boiled water to get exactly 200 ml. Chamomile can also be used by pregnant women, but you need to know when to stop.

Oak bark also has good properties for the treatment of chronic and non-specific urethritis. An infusion is prepared from a spoonful of raw materials and 200 ml of boiling water. The remedy should be infused for three hours, and then it is filtered and used for baths up to three times a day for up to five minutes each.

Herbal tea is another folk remedy suitable for the treatment of urethritis in women. The collection includes oak bark, and also consists of pharmacy sage and horsetail. All these ingredients are mixed in equal proportions, crushed and poured with water: 1 liter of boiling water for 2-3 tablespoons of the collection. We insist on a water bath for a quarter of an hour and filter, and then cool and make baths.

When making baths for the treatment of women with inflammation of the urethra, you need to take care of the comfortable temperature of healing infusions – 37-42 degrees. So you do not allow burning of the mucous membrane. During pregnancy, such procedures are not recommended.

Women are also advised to try topical applications when treating symptoms of urethritis at home. They relieve inflammation and regulate local blood circulation. For this, marsh wild rosemary grass is suitable. To prepare the product, you will need 30 g of dry grass and 5 tablespoons of warm vegetable oil. We insist in a warm place all night, and then use the liquid for applications.

Men’s folk remedies

To combat urethritis in men, you can use the universal folk remedies listed above, but there are also other recipes. One of them is based on the infusion of celandine. It is sold in pharmacies or can be prepared at home. You will need a spoonful of infusion and a glass of boiling water. Mix, leave for half an hour and filter, and then ingest ¼ cup up to three times a day.

Acute urethritis in men can be cured with garlic folk remedies. This recipe is also suitable for women, but few of them are willing to sacrifice fresh breath. Men are advised to eat a clove of garlic during meals or before meals. It contains an essential oil and a natural antibiotic that kills bacteria. When urethritis is caused by gonococci, the effect of this folk remedy will be noticeable very quickly.

For men with chronic or acute urethritis, a herbal remedy is recommended. It consists of horsetail, grated wild rose (we need the berries), juniper and elderberry flowers. All these components are mixed in equal proportions and poured with boiling water: 500 ml per 1 spoon. We insist in a thermos for half an hour, filter and take ½ cup twice a day. The course of treatment lasts at least two weeks.

We remind you that independent attempts to diagnose and prescribe treatment are fraught with the transition of the disease to a chronic form, therefore, first of all, be sure to visit a doctor who treats urethritis and other diseases of the urogenital area.

Treatment of urethritis with folk remedies for men

Description of the disease

Urethritis is an inflammatory disease of the urethra (urethra). Urologists distinguish 2 types of the disease: infectious and non-infectious.

The first includes inflammatory processes that have arisen against the background of venereal diseases (syphilis, gonorrhea, trichomonellosis, genital herpes), as well as ailments caused by infections of a non-venereal nature (fungal, viral, bacterial).

Noninfectious urethritis can be caused by damage to the urethra, an allergic reaction to a food or medication, or a metabolic disorder. The disease can be acute or chronic. It is contagious in any phase and is easily transmitted sexually.

Read our next article if you want to know more about male urethritis and its symptoms, and home remedies are detailed below.

Indications and contraindications

Traditional medicine recipes are especially effective at the beginning of the disease. They are more often used in the chronic form of the disease, with exacerbations, drug treatment is more effective. Therapy should be carried out under the supervision of a physician.

In case of a disease of a venereal nature, the process is controlled by a venereologist, non-infectious and non-venereal urethritis is treated by a urologist. It is impossible to be limited to folk remedies. They can remove some of the symptoms, but they are not able to eliminate the cause of the disease, which will make itself felt with a quick relapse.

Alternative therapy has a number of contraindications. Self-prepared preparations should not be used in:

• severe forms of chronic disease;
• diabetes mellitus;
• renal and hepatic insufficiency;
• autoimmune diseases;
• malignant tumors;
• allergies to certain types of herbs.

Attention! For the successful treatment of urethritis by alternative methods, it is important not to exceed the dosage. Excessive use of home remedies can cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, seizures, and sleep and appetite disturbances.

Treatment should be discontinued immediately if symptoms persist. It is worth considering that some plants can weaken or change the effect of medicines, so you should consult a doctor before starting self-treatment.

The role of medicinal plants

Treatment of urethritis includes 2 main directions : getting rid of the infection and restoring the affected walls of the urethra. The doctor prescribes a complex of drugs, including antibiotics in the form of tablets, capsules and injections, as well as drugs for external exposure.

Drug treatment of urethritis in men can be supplemented with folk remedies. When used correctly, they can:

1. Gently act on the bladder, accelerating the release of urine and flushing the urethra.
2. Strengthen the body’s defenses and improve disease resistance.
3. Prevent inflammation and suppuration, accelerate tissue repair.
4. Weaken the action of microorganisms.
5. Strengthen and supplement the action of industrial medicines.
6. Relieve pain, itching and burning, soothe, restore comfort during and after urination.

The herbal treatment of urethritis is widely used in alternative medicine , which can be used alone or in combination . Raw materials are purchased at a pharmacy or collected independently. It should not be damaged or stale. Expired herbs for urethritis cannot be used, they lose almost all healing properties.

Used to treat urethritis St. John’s wort, horsetail, meadowsweet, shepherd’s purse, bear’s ears, knotweed, tansy and immortelle flowers, hop and coriander fruits, pharmacy chamomile, harrow or calamus root, sage, wheatgrass, cumin, marshmallow, nettle, yarrow.

Herbs are brewed with boiling water and infused, after straining they are drunk as tea or medicinal tincture, used for sitz baths, lotions, compresses and washings. The course of treatment depends on the condition of the patient, usually it lasts 1-2 months .

During this period, you can alternately use different folk remedies for the treatment of urethritis, using each of them for 5-7 days.

Treatment of urethritis with folk remedies

For oral administration, prepare a healing infusion of black currant . Pour a handful of fresh leaves with 2 cups of boiling water and insist under the lid for 1 hour. Ready infusion is drunk instead of regular tea or taken 0.5 cup before meals.

The agent has a good diuretic, antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effect. You can supplement the therapy with fresh blackcurrant berries.

They are best eaten without sugar as an afternoon dessert or light snack. Berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C and natural acids.

A pronounced diuretic and anti-inflammatory effect has lingonberry leaf decoction . 2 tbsp. spoons of raw materials are poured with a liter of boiling water, heated in a water bath for 5-7 minutes, poured into a thermos and insisted for 2 hours.

After straining, the decoction is divided into 4 portions and drunk before meals during the day. The drink can be alternated with lingonberry or cranberry juice. You can sweeten fruit drinks with liquid honey (no more than 1 teaspoon per glass of drink).

Good restorative and diuretic – parsley decoction. 80 g of fresh chopped greens are poured into milk (1 cup), then evaporated in the oven or oven to half the volume. Ready concentrated broth is filtered and taken before meals (100 ml per serving).

Another version of the diuretic and antimicrobial decoction is being prepared based on couch grass . 2 tbsp. spoons of crushed roots are poured into a glass of cold water and infused for 10-12 hours.

After that, the water is poured into a separate container, a glass of boiling water is added to the soaked raw material and infused for 10 minutes. The broth is filtered, the drained liquid is added to it. The drug should be drunk before meals for 0. 5 cups. The course of treatment is 5-7 days.

An infusion of cornflower flowers has a strengthening and antimicrobial effect. 2 tbsp. spoons of crushed raw materials are poured with 2 cups of boiling water and insisted under the lid for 2-3 hours. The finished product is filtered and drunk before meals during the day.

linden decoction will help relieve burning and pain . 1 st. a spoonful of linden blossom is poured into a glass of boiling water, heated in a water bath for 10 minutes, insisted for half an hour, filtered and drunk before going to bed. It is not worth storing the broth; a fresh portion is prepared daily.

Try multi-herbal tonic . Mix in equal proportions horsetail, elder flowers, rose hips and juniper. 2 tbsp. spoons of the collection pour 2 cups of boiling water, leave for 20 minutes, strain. Divide liquid into 2 servings and drink 10 minutes before meals.

You can supplement the treatment of male urethritis with folk remedies with healing soothing tea . In a separate container, mix dried mint, lemon balm, raspberry leaves, rose hips and hawthorn.

Boil a handful of raw materials with a liter of boiling water, infuse for half an hour and drink like regular tea. You can add a little honey for taste.

Useful warm sitz baths . They soothe, eliminate burning sensation in the urethra, have a disinfecting and anti-inflammatory effect.

Pour a handful of dried or fresh chamomile with a liter of boiling water, heat it up for 5-10 minutes, leave it under the lid for another 15-20 minutes.

After straining, the decoction is poured into a shallow basin and diluted with warm water. The procedure lasts 10-15 minutes, it is better to do it in the evening, before going to bed. The same baths can be prepared from stinging nettle, willow bark, chestnut or oak, burnet, celandine.

An excellent alternative to dry raw materials – pharmacy tinctures for alcohol. Pour 100 ml of eucalyptus or calendula tincture into a bowl of warm water.

Sit in the basin for 10 minutes, rinsing the skin after the procedure is not necessary. Herbs have antimicrobial, decongestant and soothing effects, 4-5 procedures are needed per course.

sage decoction lotion will help relieve inflammation . Pour a handful of raw materials with a liter of water and boil for 10 minutes.

Steep covered for 40 minutes, strain. Soak a cotton swab in the liquid and apply to the urethra so that the decoction flows freely, washing the affected tissues. The procedure lasts 5-7 minutes.

How to supplement therapy?

Not only folk remedies for urethritis will help to speed up recovery, but also the right way of life . Do not abuse alcohol, stop smoking, do not lift heavy things and avoid hypothermia. A good night’s sleep and the absence of stress are very important.

Not the last role in the treatment of urethritis is a balanced diet . The patient should drink at least 1.