Urethritis is an inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. It can be caused by infections, irritants, or injuries. Symptoms often include pain during urination, frequent urge to urinate, and discharge from the urethra. This condition can affect both men and women, though the causes may differ. In men, it is often linked to sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea or chlamydia. In women, it can result from bacterial infections or irritation from products like soaps or spermicides. Treatment typically involves antibiotics or avoiding irritants.