[ Nongonococcal Urethritis (NGU) Infection ]

What is Nongonococcal Urethritis (NGU) Infection?

NGU is an infection of the urethra caused by germs other than gonorrhea, most often chlamydia.

Sexually, NGU can be transmitted with direct mucous membrane contact vaginally, anally, or orally, even if body fluids are not exchanged.

Nonsexually, NGU may be caused by urinary tract infections, an inflamed prostate gland, a tightening of the foreskin, or a tightening or closing of the urethal tube in the penis. Infants may contract NGU from the birth canal which may lead to infections in the eyes, ears, or lungs.

Symptoms

NGU can cause other infections like vaginitis and mucopurulent cervicitis. Women may have no symptoms, but can experience vaginal discharge, burning during urination, or the infection may progress to PID or Pelvic Inflammatory Disease.

Men may experience burning during urination, itching, irritation, sensitivity, or discharge from the penis.

NGU anal infection may produce a discharge or pain when eliminating or rectal itching. Oral infections are usually asymptomatic, but in rare occasions will result in a sore throat.

Treatment

Drug treatments include azithromycin, doxycycline, erythromycin, and ofloxacin.

Testing

After gonorrhea is ruled out, a chlamydia culture, or sometimes, a urinalysis can be done.