Why Does My Urethra Sting? Causes of Urethral Pain in Men

Question

After having sexual intercourse about a week ago, I started experiencing a stinging sensation and discomfort in my urethra.

I visited a urology clinic and had a PCR urine test, but the results showed no abnormalities.

Even though the test results were normal, I continue to feel a heavy sensation in the urethral area along with frequent urination.

Has anyone experienced similar symptoms, or could an expert provide some insight?

A few months ago, I was diagnosed with Gardnerella and was prescribed antibiotics.

My current symptoms feel very similar to what I experienced back then.

Ryu Kyung-ho · Accepted Answer

Hello, this is Dr. Ryu Kyung-ho from Goldman Urology Clinic, Gangnam Branch.

You may be understandably concerned about persistent urethral discomfort and frequent urination after sexual intercourse. Even if your PCR urine test results came back normal, there are several possibilities to consider if symptoms continue.

First, the test may have been performed too early, during the incubation period, which means the causative organism may not have been detected yet. In such cases, repeat testing after a certain period may be necessary. Additionally, symptoms such as a heavy sensation and urinary frequency can occur not only from common sexually transmitted infections but also from prostatitis or inflammation of the surrounding urethral tissues.

If you have a history of Gardnerella infection, it is possible that the previous treatment was incomplete, or that a similar nonspecific inflammatory condition has recurred due to a weakened immune system. Therefore, if symptoms persist, further evaluation beyond urine testing—such as prostate fluid or semen analysis—may be required.

At our urology clinic, each branch is equipped with extensive clinical experience. We carefully assess each patient’s symptoms and overall health to provide accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans. Identifying the exact cause is the first step toward effective treatment, so if your symptoms persist, we recommend visiting a urology clinic for further evaluation.

We hope this information is helpful. Thank you.