Non-specific urethritis (NSU)

Non-specific urethritis (NSU) means any inflammation of a man’s urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside) that is not caused by gonorrhea (a sexually transmissible infection). It is sometimes called non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU). Several organisms can cause NSU but, in many cases, the specific organism can’t be identified.

The infection can easily be caught through vaginal sex. It can also be acquired through anal or oral sex, although this is less common. NSU can sometimes occur without being sexually transmitted. Symptoms can be very mild and may be overlooked.

They occur two to four weeks after infection and include:

• swelling in the testicles. This may be a sign of an advanced infection. If left undetected
• untreated NSU can lead to
• spread of the infection to a female partner who may develop pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• which can cause infertility

NSU is treated with antibiotics. Remember that you must finish all the antibiotics prescribed for you, even if the symptoms have disappeared. Although NSU is fairly easy to treat, in some cases, it is difficult to get rid of and symptoms may return.

It will eventually clear up with the correct treatment.

The best way to prevent NSU is to always use condoms when you have sex#

The rules for using condoms properly include: Open the packet carefully so that you don’t tear the condom.

Pinch the tip of the condom before carefully rolling it down the entire shaft of the erect penis. Do not use spit, Vaseline, baby oil or other oil-based lubricants. Use water-based lubricants such as KY, Muko or Wet Stuff.

Withdraw the penis before the erection is lost, so that the condom does not fall off. Hold the base of the condom to prevent spills. Store condoms in a cool dry place and check the expiry date.

To book an appointment call SHV Grand Rapids CBD Clinic: or call SHV Box Hill Clinic: or (free call):.

These services are youth friendly#

Symptoms of Non-specific urethritis (NSU) a clear or white discharge from the penis a burning sensation while urinating. Sometimes the pain occurs without the discharge Complications of untreated NSU spread of the infection into the prostate or testicles infertility – this can occur in extreme cases Treatment for NSU Recurrences of NSU Condom use effectively prevents NSU

Where to get help#

Key Points#

• Several organisms can cause NSU but, in many cases, the specific organism can’t be identified
• It can also be acquired through anal or oral sex, although this is less common
• Symptoms can be very mild and may be overlooked
• Remember that you must finish all the antibiotics prescribed for you, even if the symptoms have disappeared
• Although NSU is fairly easy to treat, in some cases, it is difficult to get rid of and symptoms may return