Non-Gonococcal Urethritis (NGU)
NGU is also sometimes called non-specific urethritis (NSU).
What is NGU?
NGU is inflammation of the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body).
It can cause discomfort or pain when you pee.
NGU can be treated with antibiotics.
Around half of NGU cases are caused by chlamydia. There are also some less common causes.
How is NGU diagnosed?
A sexual health clinic can usually diagnose NGU during your appointment.
A healthcare professional takes a swab from the end of the penis. Any material collected on the swab is examined under a microscope.
How is NGU treated?
NGU is treated with antibiotics.
The antibiotics used are the same as those used to treat chlamydia.
What about my sexual partners?
Your regular sexual partner or partners should be tested and treated.
They can:
- Contact their GP or practice nurse for testing and treatment.
- Contact Lothian Sexual Health to arrange an appointment.
- Use treatment vouchers from us at a community pharmacy in Lothian.
You should also contact any sexual partners you have had in the last 6 months and let them know they may need a test.
When can I have sex again?
Do not have sex, including sex with a condom, until 7 days after you have completed your treatment.
If your current sexual partner is treated after you, wait until 7 days after their treatment before having sex with them.