6 Reasons Why It Hurts to Pee
We all know the feeling – that burning sensation when passing urine. It’s uncomfortable and, at times, can be quite painful. Unfortunately, for some, it’s a part of daily life. Painful urination, also known as dysuria, is a common and uncomfortable symptom of many conditions. And it can occur in both men and women. But why does it hurt to pee in the first place? Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why urinating can cause pain and irritation.
Why It Hurts to Pee
1. Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
One of the most common causes of painful urination is an infection in the urinary tract. Urinary tract infection is particularly common among women, but men are not immune from them either. UTIs can cause an increase in frequency or urgency for urination, as well as burning or stinging when passing urine. In addition, there may be cloudy urine or a strong odor associated with UTIs. Other symptoms include pelvic pain and fever or chills if bacteria has spread to other parts of the body from the infection site.
Learn more: 12 Home Remedies for UTI (Urinary Tract Infection)
2. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, and genital herpes can all cause pain when urinating. People with an STI may also experience itching, burning, or a discharge from their genitals.
3. Kidney stones
Kidney stones can also cause painful urination due to blockage of urine flow through the ureters. In addition to painful peeing, severe pain on one side of your lower back or abdomen accompanied by nausea and vomiting could indicate kidney stones, along with burning during urination and blood in your urine. Kidney stones may also cause frequent urges to urinate with no relief because you cannot pass enough urine due to blockage in your urinary tract caused by the stone(s).
4. Interstitial cystitis
Pain while peeing can also be caused by interstitial cystitis, a chronic inflammation of the bladder wall. Symptoms include persistent discomfort or pain in the bladder and pelvic region that worsens as the bladder fills with urine. People with this condition may feel an urgent need to urinate but have difficulty doing so. Additionally, they may experience pain during intercourse.
5. Yeast infection
A yeast infection, which is also known as candidiasis, can cause a burning sensation while urinating. Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of candida albicans in the vagina and the surrounding areas, leading to vaginal itching and irritation. Such infections may also lead to pain during sex and a thick, white vaginal discharge. The most common symptom of this condition is an intense itching sensation in the affected area, which can be very painful and uncomfortable.
6. Hygiene products
In some cases, items used for personal hygiene can make it hurt to pee. Certain types of soaps or detergents may irritate the urethra and cause a burning sensation when passing urine. Additionally, douching too often or using scented feminine products like sprays, wipes, and powders can also cause irritation in the urethra and lead to painful urination.
No matter what the cause, it’s important to seek medical attention if you experience painful urination. Your doctor can diagnose the cause and suggest treatment options to help relieve your symptoms. Treatment will vary depending on the condition causing pain but may include antibiotics or antifungal medications if an infection is suspected. It’s also important to drink plenty of water, practice safe sex, and maintain good hygiene to help prevent painful urination in the future.
