West Midlands
Non-Specific Urethritis (NSU): Common, Treatable
Non-Specific Urethritis (NSU) is a common condition that causes inflammation of the urethra, a burning sensation when passing urine, usually from an infection or irritation. It can affect anyone who is sexually active. The good news? NSU is easily treatable once diagnosed.
Not everyone experiences symptoms, which is why regular sexual health check-ups are a smart way to stay on top of your health. If symptoms do show up, they can be uncomfortable, but early diagnosis and treatment can help you feel better quickly and prevent complications.
Cost of consultation
- Focused GP appointment (15min) £75
- Standard GP appointment (30min) £120
Non-specific Urethritis (NSU) is a condition characterised by inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. Unlike other forms of urethritis, which are caused by specific bacteria or viruses, NSU can have a variety of causes, hence the term “non-specific.” While commonly linked to sexual activity, NSU can also occur without any specific infection being identified.
NSU can be contracted through unprotected sexual contact, including vaginal, oral, or anal sex with an infected partner. While infections like chlamydia and gonorrhoea are known causes, NSU can occur without a clear bacterial or viral source. Non-infectious factors such as irritation from soaps, sexual activity, or urinary tract issues can also cause inflammation of the urethra.
The best way to reduce the risk of developing NSU is to practice safe sex. Using condoms during vaginal, anal, and oral sex significantly lowers the chance of infections that can cause urethritis, such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea. It’s also important to have regular sexual health check-ups, especially if you have new or multiple partners. Avoiding irritants like harsh soaps or lotions around the genital area can also help prevent inflammation of the urethra. Open communication with your partner about sexual health and ensuring both partners are tested before engaging in sexual activity further reduces risks.
Anyone who is sexually active and experiences symptoms such as pain or discomfort when urinating, unusual discharge, or increased urgency to urinate should get tested for NSU. Even if there are no symptoms, those who have had unprotected sex or whose partner has a sexually transmitted infection (STI) should consider testing. Regular testing is particularly important for people with new or multiple sexual partners, as early detection can prevent complications and allow for timely treatment.
What are the steps?
1. Book an appointment
2. Get seen by a doctor
3. Do the test
Signs and symptoms of NSU
Common symptoms of NSU include:
- Pain or burning sensation when urinating
- Increased urge to urinate more frequently
- Unusual discharge from the penis
- Discomfort or soreness in the lower abdomen
However, not everyone with NSU experiences noticeable symptoms, which is why regular sexual health check-ups are important.
Testing and diagnosis
To diagnose NSU, we will usually ask for a urine sample and take a swab from the urethra.
What We Test For
Non-Specific Urethritis (NSU)
We carry out a detailed urine analysis to check for signs of infection or inflammation, even when the cause isn’t immediately clear.
✔ Urine MCS (Microscopy, Culture & Sensitivities) £25
Bacterial count – checks for infection
Culture & sensitivities – identifies bacteria and which antibiotics will work best
Red & white blood cells – signs of inflammation or infection
Urine glucose, protein, and pH – helps rule out other conditions
✔ PCR Testing on Urine for Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea £72
A PCR test (Polymerase Chain Reaction) looks for the genetic material of bacteria – making it one of the most accurate ways to detect infections.
It can pick up even tiny amounts of bacteria
Gives fast and reliable results
Requires just a urine sample – no swabs needed
Can detect infections before symptoms even appear
This combined approach gives a clear picture of what’s going on, helping us find the cause quickly and treat it effectively.
Treatment
Non-Specific Urethritis (NSU) is usually treated with a simple course of antibiotics to clear any underlying bacterial infection, even if the exact cause isn’t identified. The key is to take all the medication as prescribed to ensure the infection is fully treated.
Practicing safe sex, like using condoms, is a great way to protect yourself and prevent future infections. If you think you might have NSU, don’t worry—just reach out for medical advice. Early treatment is quick, effective, and helps you feel better faster and avoids complications.
Book your test now!
At OneMedicine, we offer confidential and accurate testing for non-specific urethritis (NSU). Whether you’ve experienced symptoms or are concerned after unprotected sex, getting tested is an essential step to ensure your well-being. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and help maintain your long-term health, giving you peace of mind.
