Published on: 4/28/2025
Itching inside the urethra can be caused by chemical irritation, friction, allergies, or infections.
Itching in the urethral opening (the tiny hole where urine comes out) can happen for several reasons. Irritation from everyday products like soaps or lotions may occur because these items are too harsh for this sensitive area. Allergic reactions are also common—certain detergents, fabrics, or even condoms can trigger itching. Itching can also be caused by tight clothing or friction during sexual activity. Infections can also cause itching—including yeast infections and urethritis (inflammation of the urinary tube). Several organisms can lead to urethritis, such as bacteria like E. coli, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or other microorganisms that get into the urinary tract. You may also notice discharge or pain when urinating. If the itching continues, gets worse, or is accompanied by symptoms like burning pain, unusual discharge, or swelling, you should seek medical evaluation to check for infections or other conditions.
(References)
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Martin Lopez JE. Candidiasis (vulvovaginal). BMJ Clin Evid. 2015 Mar 16;2015:0815. PMID: 25775428; PMCID: PMC4360556.
Patel RV, Brimioulle M, Govani D, Youssef T. Juvenile allergic urethritis with urethro-ejaculatory reflux presenting as acute intermittent bilateral testicular torsion. BMJ Case Rep. 2015 Jul 6;2015:bcr2014207392. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2014-207392. PMID: 26150614; PMCID: PMC4493169.
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