Urethral Discharge

Any inflammatory condition within the urethra may cause a discharge. It is important to diagnose venereal conditions so that appropriate treatment is given, not only to the patient but also to sexual contacts.

History

General

For any sexually transmitted disease, check for a history of sexual contact, time of last sexual intercourse, contraceptive methods, number and duration of relationships, sexual practices and unusual sexual practices.

Prostatitis

Urethral discharge is rare with acute prostatitis. With chronic prostatitis, there may be a clear white urethral discharge. The patient may also complain of suprapubic pain, low back pain, perineal discomfort and pain referred to the testicles.

Non-gonococcal urethritis

The patient complains of urethral discharge, which may be thinner than with gonorrhoea. The presentation may be less acute than with gonorrhoea.

Gonorrhoea

The patient will complain of a thickish, purulent urethral discharge and dysuria. Prostatitis and epididymitis may occur, the patient complaining of deep perineal pain or scrotal swelling.

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