What causes pain at the urethral opening?

Under normal circumstances, pain or a stabbing sensation at the urethral opening may be caused by improper diet, overly vigorous sexual activity, balanitis, urethritis, bladder stones, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Improper diet: Consuming excessive spicy or irritating foods such as chili peppers and Sichuan pepper may irritate the urethral opening during urination, causing a stabbing or painful sensation. It is advisable to maintain a light diet and drink plenty of water, which can help reduce irritation to the urethra.

2. Overly vigorous sexual activity: Excessive force during intercourse may damage the urethral opening, leading to pain or discomfort. It is important to control the intensity of sexual activity, avoid prolonged duration or excessive force, and allow time for rest and recovery.

3. Balanitis: This condition may be associated with infection or trauma, with common symptoms including local redness, swelling, erosion, and ulcer formation. Inflammatory stimulation may also cause pain at the urethral opening. Patients may use medications such as clotrimazole cream, miconazole nitrate cream, or amoxicillin granules as directed by a physician.

4. Urethritis: Usually caused by pathogen infection of the urethra, this condition often leads to discomfort at the urethral opening, manifesting as itching, stabbing pain, or a burning sensation, and may be accompanied by symptoms such as frequent urination and urgency. Patients may take medications such as azithromycin capsules, cefixime capsules, or minocycline hydrochloride capsules as advised by their doctor.

5. Bladder stones: These may be related to malnutrition or urethral stricture. Larger stones can cause localized pain that radiates toward the distal urethra, resulting in a stabbing sensation at the urethral opening. Symptoms may also include frequent urination, urgency, and hematuria (blood in urine). Patients may undergo extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy under medical supervision to help alleviate symptoms.

Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits is important. Avoid overexertion and engage in moderate physical activities such as jogging or tai chi, which can support recovery and overall well-being.