Dysuria is discomfort, pain or a burning sensation during urination.

Causes

Dysuria is commonly caused by an infection in the bladder, vagina or urethra.

Less common causes may be an injury or friction in the genital area during sexual activity or low female hormone levels.

Rare causes could be allergies, stones in the urinary tract or cancer.

Tests

Your health care provider may discuss your symptoms, other medical conditions and sexual practices. A physical exam, lab tests and possibly X-rays may be ordered.

Cystoscopy uses a fiber optic camera to view the inside of the bladder and urethra to find causes of bleeding or blockage or any abnormalities of the bladder and its lining.

Treatment

Medication will be prescribed for an infection.

An estrogen cream or hormones may be prescribed for low female hormone levels.

Using lubrication may be advised during sex.

If other conditions are suspected, your healthcare provider may order a cystoscopy.