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Nongonococcal urethritis (NGU) is typically a sexually transmitted infection, although it can also result from urethral trauma. Commonly associated symptoms include itching, discharge, irritation, and pain during urination. Antibiotics are the primary treatment for NGU. It is always advisable to complete your entire course of medication and inform all your sexual partners so that they can also seek treatment.
By Able Health I Medically reviewed by Dr. Alireza Estedlal
Page last reviewed: February 2024 I Next review due: February 2026
Nongonococcal urethritis (NGU) refers to inflammation of the urethra (the tube that allows urine to leave the body). It is primarily a sexually transmitted infection (STI) contracted through unprotected sexual contact with an infected partner. However, NGU can also result from non-sexual causes. While it can affect anyone, men and individuals assigned male at birth (AMAB) are at a higher risk of contracting the infection. The term "nongonococcal" implies that, besides gonorrhoea, other germs also contribute to the infection. "Urethritis" refers to inflammation of the urethra. Nonspecific urethritis (NSU) is another name for NGU.
Nongonococcal urethritis is quite common. Doctors frequently diagnose and treat this condition, unlike other STIs in men and individuals AMAB.
The possible early signs of nongonococcal urethritis in men and those AMAB include:
If left untreated, NGU could worsen and lead to more serious symptoms in men and individuals AMAB, such as:
In women and individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB), the infection symptoms are usually fewer and can include:
Sometimes, individuals with NGU may not experience any symptoms.
Urethritis can be uncomfortable. One might feel a burning or stinging sensation when urinating or ejaculating. An irritating itchiness inside the urethra, where it is difficult to scratch, can also occur.
The causes of NGU can be sexual or non-sexual.
STIs are the leading cause of NGU. These infections can be transmitted through unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Several types of germs can contribute to nongonococcal urethritis. While chlamydia is the most common type, other bacteria that can also cause NGU include:
Additionally, trichomonas vaginalis and the herpes simplex virus can cause NGU, although this is rare.
NGU can also result from non-sexual causes, such as:
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If NGU is caused by bacteria, symptoms often appear 1 to 3 weeks after infection. Nonetheless, some individuals may not show any symptoms.
Everyone is susceptible to NGU, although it is more common in those with a penis. Generally, you are at a higher risk of contracting the infection if:
Usually, nongonococcal urethritis resolves without treatment and does not cause any complications. It is also less likely to cause long-term problems. However, in rare cases, untreated infection can lead to complications such as:
It is advisable to see a healthcare provider if you experience any symptoms affecting your genitals, particularly during urination or sexual intercourse.
If you suspect NGU, it is important to seek medical attention right away. The doctor will diagnose nongonococcal urethritis by reviewing your health history and performing a physical examination. They may ask questions regarding your sexual behaviour, such as:
While these questions might feel intrusive or uncomfortable to discuss, your doctor will not judge you. They are necessary for an accurate diagnosis and to help you get better sooner. Therefore, it is essential to answer them honestly.
You may be required to undergo some tests to confirm the diagnosis.
In most cases, the doctor uses a cotton swab to perform a bacterial culture test from any of the following areas:
Sometimes, more than one STI can coexist at the same time. In such cases, the doctor may order diagnostic tests such as:
Yes. Even without treatment, NGU can resolve on its own. However, for peace of mind and to protect your partners, you should consider scheduling an appointment with the doctor immediately after developing symptoms.
Medical providers often prescribe antibiotics to eliminate the germs causing NGU. Commonly used antibiotics include:
If these antibiotics trigger an allergic reaction or fail to clear the infection, the doctor may prescribe alternative antibiotics.
It is also important that both you and your partner(s) are treated, as you may continue to pass the infection back and forth if only one partner receives treatment.
After starting antibiotic treatment, symptoms can take about 1 or 2 weeks to improve. However, without treatment, nongonococcal urethritis may resolve on its own within a few weeks to 6 months.
NGU can only be transmitted if it is caused by an STI. You will be contagious until you complete your entire course of medication and your symptoms go away. Refrain from sexual contact until you have finished your antibiotics and no longer show symptoms.
To effectively prevent NGU, you should:
The prognosis for nongonococcal urethritis is generally positive. Most individuals recover fully within one or two weeks of starting antibiotic treatment. The immune system is likely to clear the infection on its own within a few months. Although long-term complications from NGU are rare, there is a risk of passing the infection to sexual partners.
This is determined by the underlying cause. Irritation can last for a few days following the removal of a Foley catheter, but more serious trauma cases might heal after a month or more. The doctor will provide a more precise estimate of the duration based on your specific condition.
Yes. NGU is likely to recur. Contracting the infection once does not provide immunity against future occurrences.
After diagnosis and prescription for antibiotics, your doctor will recommend these strategies to remain healthy:
Make an appointment with your doctor if you or your partner notice any symptoms of nongonococcal urethritis. Regular STI testing is also recommended annually or more frequently if you are sexually active with more than one partner.
Yes. Nongonococcal urethritis can occur without an STI. Trauma to the urethra can lead to NGU.
No. NGU is not similar to gonorrhoea. Both have similar symptoms, but gonorrhoea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, whereas NGU results from other bacteria or trauma. Therefore, gonorrhoea and nongonococcal urethritis require different treatments.
Experiencing symptoms in sensitive areas, particularly after engaging in unprotected sex, can be stressful. It is normal to hope that the symptoms will resolve on their own, but ignoring them can lead to various complications. If tests show that you have nongonococcal urethritis, your doctor may recommend antibiotics to help clear the infection. Ensure that you inform all your sexual partners from the past three months about your condition. Regardless of who might have infected the other, protecting everyone's health and safety is essential.