Non-specific urethritis (NSU)

Non-specific urethritis (NSU) is a term for inflammation of the urethra (wee-pipe) of the penis when the cause isn’t known. Sometimes the cause is an infection passed through sex, and sometimes the inflammation might be related to irritation from things like soap, latex, or chemicals, for example.

You might notice, irritation or itching in the urethra (wee-pipe), discomfort or pain when passing urine (going for a wee), or a discharge (wetness or mucus) at the tip of the penis.

It is diagnosed in a sexual health clinic. A sample will be taken with a small swab from the tip of your penis. This sample is then looked at under a microscope to check for signs of inflammation.

Anyone with these symptoms is recommended to test for chlamydia and gonorrhoea.

You can use the Service Finder below to find a testing service near you.

You will be given antibiotics to treat possible chlamydia infection as this is the most common cause. If your chlamydia test comes back negative, and your symptoms do not improve, you should return to the clinic and you may need more tests or treatment.

NSU can be passed through sex. If you are treated for NSU, you should avoid sex for 7 days and your sexual contacts should also get tested.

It is important to tell any people you have had sex with that you have NSU. Your nurse or doctor will help you work out which partners to tell and can help you tell them (if you want help with this).

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