What Might Cause Pain in the Urethra When Urinating?

There are several reasons why you might feel pain in your urethra when you pee. One common cause is a urinary tract infection, where irritating bacteria the lining of your urethra and bladder. Infections from sexually transmitted diseases, like gonorrhea or chlamydia, can also lead to urethral pain by causing inflammation (known as urethritis). Besides infections, trauma or injury to the urethra can cause pain as well. Sometimes, repeated infections or injury can lead to scarring and narrowing of the urethra, which is called a urethral stricture. Other things, like certain chemicals or medications, may irritate the urethral lining and cause discomfort when urine passes through. In some people, pain in the urethra is linked to a condition called urethral pain syndrome, where the pain is real even if clear causes are harder to find. It's important to talk with a healthcare provider to find out what is causing the pain so that you can receive the right treatment.