If evidence of infection is present, antibiotics are initiated, and a follow-up urinalysis or culture will be performed after all the medications have been taken.

Women who have repeated episodes of intercourse-related urethritis or cystitis may be prescribed a peri-coital (taken shortly before or after intercourse) dose of prophylactic (preventive) antibiotics.

People with urethral syndrome (symptoms without evidence of infection) may be prescribed phenazopyridine (Pyridium) to decrease urinary discomfort while further evaluation of the cause is conducted.

Possible chemical irritants are also discontinued to determine the causal agent.

In the majority of cases, a causative agent can be identified and appropriate treatment initiated. Chronic urethritis, despite the cause, can lead to urethral strictures (narrowing) and require dilation or surgical correction.

Prolonged, untreated infection may progress to continued narrowing of the urethra, resulting in difficulty in completely emptying the bladder. Recurrent urinary tract infections may also occur. Less commonly, pyelonephritis (kidney infection) or structural damage to the urinary tract system, including impairment of renal (kidney) fuction can occur.

See your health care provider if symptoms of chronic urethritis occur.