Does genital herpes cause painful urination?

Painful urination is a common presentation of genital herpes when sores or inflammation affect the urinary opening. Burning may come from urine touching blisters or raw skin, rather than from a problem inside the bladder.

Genital herpes can cause clusters of blisters or open sores around the genitals, anus, or nearby skin. Swelling and tenderness may make the urine stream sting as it passes over affected tissue. Painful urination can also occur with other conditions, including a urinary infection, irritation, or another sexually transmitted infection, so the symptom alone cannot identify the cause.

A clinician may ask when the pain began, examine the skin, and arrange tests from a sore or a urine sample when appropriate. Avoid sexual contact while sores or new symptoms are present until you have received medical advice.

Drink enough fluid to keep your urine pale, unless a clinician has told you to restrict fluids. Keep the area clean with lukewarm water and avoid scented soaps, antiseptics, and tight clothing. Do not pick at blisters. A clinician can discuss antiviral treatment, pain relief, and ways to reduce transmission if herpes is suspected or confirmed.

If urine touching the skin is especially uncomfortable, ask a clinician or pharmacist about practical comfort measures that are suitable for you. Do not use someone else’s prescription medicine.

Arrange prompt medical care for painful urination with genital sores, unusual discharge, fever, pelvic pain, or symptoms after a new sexual contact. Seek urgent help if you cannot pass urine, have severe worsening pain, feel faint, or are pregnant and have new genital sores or burning.

Could the sores or another infection be causing the burning? Do I need a swab, urine test, or tests for other sexually transmitted infections? Which treatment is appropriate, and when is it safe to have sex again?