What causes urethritis?

Urethritis is caused by bacterial infections or parasites that inflame the urethra. The most common bacterial causes are Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which are sexually transmitted. Trichomonas vaginalis, a parasite, can also cause urethritis in both men and women. Less commonly, urethritis may result from viral infections like herpes simplex virus or non-infectious irritants such as chemicals in soaps or spermicides.

What is the best test for urethritis?

The Culture, Urine, Routine is the most important test for urethritis because it identifies the specific bacteria causing the infection and determines which antibiotics will be most effective. This test cultures a urine sample to detect bacterial growth and identify the bacterial type. For suspected parasitic causes, the Trichomonas vaginalis RNA, Qualitative, TMA test is essential as it uses advanced molecular techniques to detect the parasite's genetic material with high accuracy. Your healthcare provider may recommend both tests to ensure comprehensive diagnosis and targeted treatment.

When should I get tested for urethritis?

You should get tested if you experience painful or burning urination, unusual discharge from the urethra, frequent urges to urinate, or itching around the urethral opening. Testing is especially important if you have had unprotected sexual contact or if your partner has been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection. Early testing and diagnosis allow for prompt treatment, which prevents complications and stops the spread of infection to others.

What are the symptoms of urethritis?

Urethritis symptoms include burning or pain during urination, increased frequency and urgency to urinate, and discharge from the urethra that may be clear, white, or yellow. Men may notice discharge from the penis and discomfort in the genital area, while women may experience pelvic pain and vaginal discharge. Some people with urethritis have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, which is why testing is important if you have risk factors like recent unprotected sexual contact.

Who is at risk for urethritis?

People who are sexually active with multiple partners or without using barrier protection are at highest risk for urethritis. Young adults between ages 20 and 35 have higher rates of sexually transmitted infections that cause urethritis. Additional risk factors include having a history of sexually transmitted infections, having a partner with an STI, and engaging in sexual activity without condoms. Both men and women can develop urethritis, though symptoms may differ between genders.

What happens if urethritis is left untreated?

Untreated urethritis can lead to serious complications including the spread of infection to other reproductive organs. In men, the infection can progress to epididymitis or prostatitis, causing testicular pain and fertility problems. In women, untreated urethritis can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, which may cause chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility. The infection can also spread to sexual partners, creating a cycle of reinfection. Early diagnosis and treatment prevent these complications and protect your long-term reproductive health.

Can urethritis be diagnosed with a lab test?

Urethritis is diagnosed through lab tests that identify the specific cause of the infection. A urine culture detects bacterial infections by growing bacteria from your urine sample and identifying the type. Molecular tests like the Trichomonas vaginalis RNA test detect parasitic causes using genetic material. Your healthcare provider may also recommend a urethral swab for more accurate bacterial detection. These lab tests are essential because they identify the exact cause and guide appropriate treatment with antibiotics or antiparasitic medications.

How is urethritis treated?

Urethritis is treated based on the specific cause identified through lab testing. Bacterial urethritis caused by Chlamydia or gonorrhea is treated with antibiotics such as azithromycin or doxycycline. Parasitic urethritis caused by Trichomonas is treated with antiparasitic medications like metronidazole. Your healthcare provider will prescribe medication based on your test results, and it is important to complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve. Sexual partners should also be tested and treated to prevent reinfection.

How can I prevent urethritis?

You can prevent urethritis by using condoms consistently during sexual activity and limiting the number of sexual partners. Regular STI testing for yourself and your partners helps detect infections early before they cause symptoms or complications. Avoid using irritating personal care products like harsh soaps or douches near the genital area. Staying well-hydrated and urinating after sexual activity may help flush bacteria from the urethra. Open communication with sexual partners about testing and sexual health reduces the risk of transmission.

What can I do at home for urethritis?

While home remedies cannot cure urethritis, certain measures can help manage symptoms while you receive medical treatment. Drinking plenty of water helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract and may reduce burning during urination. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods that can irritate the urethra. Applying a warm compress to the lower abdomen may ease discomfort. However, these measures are supportive only and should not replace proper diagnosis and treatment. Always consult with a healthcare provider and complete prescribed medications to fully treat the infection.

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Urethritis Lab Test | Private MD Labs

Urethritis Blood Test & Lab Work

What is Urethritis?

Urethritis is an inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. It is caused by bacterial infections such as Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, or parasites like Trichomonas vaginalis. The Culture, Urine, Routine is the most important test for diagnosis because it identifies the specific bacteria causing the infection.

Written by Private MD Labs Medical Team

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

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