Non Specific Urethritis (NSU)

What is it?

Non-specific urethritis (NSU) is where the urethra (the main tube in the dick) is inflamed (swollen) and sore.

How do you get it?

NSU can be caused by:

• an infection (such as chlamydia or some other bacteria), which is passed on by sexual contact such as sex without condoms or by oral sex, or
• damage to the urethra (which could be the result of extended or rigorous sexual activity).

What are the symptoms or signs?

When the NSU is caused by an infection, the common symptoms are

• pain when you urinate (pee)  or cum
• a white or yellow discharge from your penis (dick)

Symptoms can take between one and three weeks to appear.

Testing

NSU is diagnosed by a genital examination by a doctor or nurse, together with a urine sample or a urethral swab.

Can it be treated?

NSU is treated with a course of antibiotics. Once you have finished the treatment you may need to be tested again to check that the infection has been completely treated. If left untreated, NSU can sometimes lead to an infection of the prostate gland (which can be painful), or sore and swollen balls.

How can it be prevented?

Using condoms and water-based lube can reduce the risk of transmitting the infections that cause NSU.