Annoying Urethral Burning…
By: Anna Myers, MSN, WHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CUNP, RN
Everyone knows a possible source for urethral burning could be a urinary tract or yeast infection or perhaps a sexually transmitted infection. There are also a few skin conditions that affect that area such as lichen sclerosis and lichen planus. However, once a detailed history, risk factors, physical exam and lab work are completed by a health care provider, we move on to other possible sources of burning.
- The Mojave Desert! It sags, drys out, and well you know...vaginal atrophy happens as women age. This is one of the greatest sources of urethral burning we see in our office. It’s just that estrogen works it’s magic in that tissue. Estrogen receptors are found in the vagina, urethra, bladder and pelvic floor musculature. As estrogen decreases with menopause, this tissue thins and becomes more dry. Some women benefit from prescription estrogen cream. A pea size amount applied twice weekly directly at the source of the burning has helped many women we treat. Keep in mind, with mixed results, some women opt for over the counter non estrogen products such as Vagisil or Replense. (See recent blog on over the counter vaginal remedies)
- Constipation is a another source of burning seen in our office. Having a bowel movement less than three times per week, or small round hard stools is considered constipation. Making sure your diet has 4-7 servings of fruits and veges, fiber, and sufficient water is important. Developing a bowel regimen such as a morning walk or drinking a hot beverage in the morning are conservative measures to get things going. If you need to take an over the counter medication or haven’t kept up with your regular colonoscopy screenings you should see your primary care for evaluation and management.
- Lastly, pelvic floor dysfunction is another possible source for burning. Sometimes it is a vicious cycle of pain, that causes the pelvic floor muscles to become tight to hold against the pain, eventually causing spasms, that continue the pain. These muscles that are overworked with spasm build up lactic acid further contributing to the pain. There are many treatment options provided by a pelvic floor physical therapist to address this pain including exercises, biofeedback and other modalities. Our office works closely with pelvic floor physical therapy to come up with a plan of care that meets our patient’s needs.
I hope you learned about a few of the other reasons for urethral burning. If you have any questions or desire to further discuss your urological concerns, please call our office at (440) 202-1515. Thank you!
Anna Myers is a women’s health, urology and family board certified nurse practitioner working in our office here in Richfield, Ohio.