1. Antibiotic Therapy
Urethritis may result from a number of bacterial or viral infections, including sexually transmitted ones. If you are exhibiting the symptoms of urethritis, your doctor may prescribe trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole or a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. If it is determined that the urethritis is likely the result of sexual activity, you may be given a ceftriaxone injection for gonorrhea and a prescription for oral azithromycin or doxycycline for chlamydia. You will need to inform your sexual partners about your urethritis, so they can be tested and treated as well. If you are a woman with recurring urethritis, you may be prescribed low doses of antibiotics to take on a daily basis. However, if you are post-menopausal, your doctor may prefer to prescribe estrogen creams or suppositories.
2. Treating Urethritis Caused by Injury or Chemicals
Urethritis that is caused by injury will usually subside on its own and will not be responsive to antibiotic therapy, although medication to manage the pain may be prescribed for short-term use. Phenazopyridine (Pyridium) is one often prescribed by doctors to eliminate the burning and pain you may feel when you urinate. If the injury that caused your urethritis is a result of some type of recurring activity (a form of exercise or sports), you may need to give up that particular activity. Urethritis that results from a chemical sensitivity will go away once you are able to locate and remove the source, which may be a spermicide or contraceptive jelly, cream, foam or any other type of product used in the genital area.
3. Lifestyle Modification
While your urethritis is clearing up, it is best to avoid sexual intercourse, as it may aggravate your symptoms. If you do engage in sexual activity, you will need to use a latex condom. If you or your partner has a latex allergy, you can use a polyurethane condom instead. If you have multiple sexual partners, you will need to continue using these condoms, even after your infection clears up, to prevent the risk of reinfection. You may also be able to prevent recurring episodes of urethritis by drinking plenty of fluids to wash harmful bacteria out of your bladder.
