Non-specific urethritis (NSU) and Cervicitis
NSU is the term used to describe swelling or inflammation of the urethra (the tube inside the penis) after other specific infections have been tested for and given a negative result, such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea. NSU is not very common, as such infections are usually easy to detect.
Cervicitis ((inflammation of the cervix, or neck of the womb) is the female equivalent of NSU.
Causes
NSU and Cervicitis can be caused by a number of different organisms, including sexually transmissible infections (STIs).
Symptoms
Symptoms can include irritation when passing urine or discharge from the penis or vagina. Females may also experience lower abdominal pain or pain during sex. Symptoms are similar to those of many STIs, and most of the time they indicate chlamydia or gonorrhoea.
How is it transmitted?
NSU and Cervicitis is transmitted through an exchange of body fluids (semen, blood and vaginal fluids) during unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sexual activity.
How do I know if I have it?
Testing for NSU and Cervicitis involves a swab from the cervix and/or urethra. More information about STI testing.
Treatment/Management
Treatment for NSU and Cervicitis involves a course of antibiotics. All sexual partners should also be tested and treated. Sex should be avoided until the treatment is complete.
Why is treatment important?
If left untreated, NSU and Cervicitis can lead to infertility in both men and women. In males it can also lead to prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland) and epididymitis (inflammation of the testicles).
Prevention
Using condoms and dams reduces the risk of contracting NSU or Cervicitis (a dam is a thin latex square held over the vaginal or anal area during oral sex). They stop body fluids like semen, blood and vaginal fluids from being exchanged. More information about condoms and dams .
For more information about NSU and Cervictis contact the Sexual Health Helpline on
9227 6178 or 1800 198 205 (country callers) or email .
Practising safe sex reduces the risk of contracting HIV and other sexually transmissible infections (STIs).
Page last updated Wed, 18 Aug 2010 08:36
