Ah, that dreaded sting during your bathroom break—if you’ve ever experienced it, you know it’s not something to brush off. Pain during urination, also known as dysuria, can be caused by a variety of things, from bladder infections to dehydration. But one culprit that often gets overlooked? Sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Let’s explore the connection between STIs and that terrifying burning sensation.
The Basics of Painful Urination
First things first: pain during urination isn’t always caused by an STI. Sometimes it’s the result of a urinary tract infection (UTI), kidney stones, or even irritation from certain soaps or products. However, when STIs are the culprit, the pain is often due to inflammation or infection in the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of your body).
Now, let’s dive into some of the common STI-related offenders.
STIs That Can Cause Pain During Urination
1. Chlamydia
Chlamydia is one of the most common bacterial STIs, particularly among younger adults. According to the CDC, 15-24-year-olds account for more than 50% of reported chlamydia cases in the U.S., and PHAC highlights it as the leading bacterial STI in Canada.
When it comes to urination, chlamydia can cause urethritis (inflammation of the urethra), leading to that uncomfortable burning sensation. Unfortunately, many people with chlamydia don’t show symptoms, so if you’re feeling the burn and haven’t been tested recently, it’s time to book that appointment.
2. Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea, also known as “the clap,” is another bacterial STI that can irritate your urethra. Like chlamydia, it’s sneaky—many people don’t show symptoms, but those who do often report pain during urination. According to Public Health Ontario, gonorrhea rates have been rising, making it more important than ever to stay vigilant.
3. Trichomoniasis
This parasitic STI might not be as well-known as chlamydia or gonorrhea, but it can still cause plenty of discomfort. Trichomoniasis can lead to irritation and inflammation in the genital area, making urination painful. The CDC estimates that around 3.7 million Americans are infected with trichomoniasis, though most don’t show symptoms.
4. Herpes
Genital herpes, caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), is often associated with painful sores or blisters. If these sores are located near the urethra, urination can become a literal pain. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that globally, over 1 in 5 adults aged 15–49 are living with genital herpes infections.
5. Syphilis
In its early stages, syphilis can cause sores, or chancres, around the genital area. If a sore develops near the urethra, it can lead to pain during urination. Syphilis rates have been on the rise in both the U.S. and Canada, according to data from the CDC and PHAC.
Why Does It Hurt?
STIs can cause pain during urination for a few reasons:
Inflammation: Many STIs lead to inflammation in the urethra or surrounding tissues, making the area sensitive and irritated.
Sores or Lesions: STIs like herpes or syphilis can cause open sores, which can sting when they come into contact with urine.
Infection: The presence of bacteria, parasites, or viruses can disrupt the normal balance of your urinary tract, leading to pain.
Testing and Diagnosis: Don’t Just Guess
If you’re experiencing pain during urination, it’s essential to get tested. The CDC, PHAC, and Public Health Ontario all stress the importance of early testing and treatment for STIs. Many clinics offer comprehensive STI testing, which typically includes urine tests, swabs, or blood tests.
While it might be tempting to self-diagnose using the internet, only a healthcare provider can determine the exact cause of your symptoms. Plus, they can recommend the best course of treatment to address the issue.
Prevention: The Best Practice
Prevention is key in reducing the spread of STIs. Here are some steps to minimize risk:
Use Protection: Consistent use of condoms and dental dams significantly reduces the risk of STI transmission.
Vaccinate: Vaccines for HPV and hepatitis B offer excellent protection.
Communicate: Open and honest discussions with sexual partners about STI testing and sexual health is healthy for relationships, and helps to create mutual responsibility.
Get Tested: Regular testing ensures early detection and treatment. If you’re sexually active with multiple partners, get tested every three months.
You may be motivated to self-diagnose, but if there’s one big takeaway from this article, it's that a symptom like burning pee can mean any number of things. It’s worth letting someone who studied this stuff for years give their opinion.
When to See a Doctor
Pain during urination isn’t something to ignore, especially if it’s persistent or accompanied by other symptoms like unusual discharge, fever, or abdominal pain. Your healthcare provider can help determine whether an STI, UTI, or another condition is to blame.
Remember, seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign that you care about your health (and your vagina/penis).
The Bottom Line
Painful urination is a common symptom of several STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, herpes, and syphilis. While it’s not the only possible cause of dysuria, it’s a good reason to prioritize regular testing and safe sex practices.
Taking care of your sexual health doesn’t have to be stressful. By staying informed, using protection, and seeking medical advice when needed, you can keep those unpleasant bathroom experiences to a minimum. And trust us, your urethra will thank you for it.
Want to do an STI test from home? Subscribe to Trusti’s newsletter to find out when tests for these conditions are available in your location.