A number of conditions can cause painful urination (dysuria). In women, urinary tract infections are a common cause of painful urination. In men, urethritis and certain prostate conditions are frequent causes of painful urination.

Medical conditions and external factors that can cause painful urination include:

  1. Bladder stones
  2. Chlamydia trachomatis
  3. Cystitis (bladder inflammation)
  4. Drugs, such as those used in cancer treatment, that have bladder irritation as a side effect
  5. Genital herpes
  6. Gonorrhea
  7. Having a recent urinary tract procedure performed, including use of urologic instruments for testing or treatment
  8. Kidney infection (also called pyelonephritis)
  9. Kidney stones (hard objects that form due to chemicals in urine)
  10. Prostatitis (infection or inflammation of the prostate)
  11. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
  12. Soaps, perfumes and other personal care products
  13. Urethral stricture (narrowing of the urethra)
  14. Urethritis (infection of the urethra)
  15. Urinary tract infection (UTI)
  16. Vaginitis
  17. Yeast infection (vaginal)

Causes shown here are commonly associated with this symptom. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis.

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Dec. 03, 2022