Dysuria is the medical term for painful urination. Pain, discomfort, or burning is usually felt in the tube that carries urine out of the bladder, called the urethra, or the area surrounding the genitals. It is more common in women than men, and most people will suffer from some form of dysuria at least once.

Several conditions can cause painful urination. Most common in women is a urinary tract infection (UTI) and in men, urethritis and certain prostate conditions are the main cause. Other medical conditions can include bladder or kidney stones, cystitis, genital herpes, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), drugs, such as those used in cancer treatments, kidney infection, vaginitis, or a vaginal yeast infection.

You should see a doctor if your painful urination persists, you have discharge from your penis or vagina, your urine is foul-smelling or cloudy or you can see bleed in your urine. You have a fever or back or side pain.

Treatment of dysuria will depend on the cause, you should work with your doctor to determine the cause and the best treatment option for you.