Urethral discharge in men typically refers to the release of fluid or mucus from the opening of the urethra. This symptom often causes significant concern and is a common reason for seeking medical advice. However, it is important to distinguish between what is considered normal and what may indicate a pathological condition.
Normal Urethral Discharge
In certain situations, discharge from the urethral opening is not pathological and reflects normal physiological processes, such as:
Clear, mucous-like secretion during strong sexual arousal or morning erections. This is produced by the urethral glands to lubricate and protect the urethra.
Seminal fluid during or outside of intercourse (e.g., nocturnal emissions).
Defecation prostatorrhea: the release of prostate secretions during intense straining while passing stool due to the anatomical position of the prostate.
Post-urination prostatorrhea: a small amount of prostate fluid released after urination.
These episodes are rare, short in duration, and usually not repeated frequently. In general, the external urethral opening in a healthy man should remain dry and clean.
When to Be Concerned
Men are often familiar with their normal bodily functions and can quickly detect abnormalities. Visible changes in the quantity, consistency, color, or smell of discharge should prompt a medical evaluation. Pathological discharge may present as:
Gray, white, green, yellow, or brown in color
Presence of blood
Foul odor
Burning, pain, or discomfort in the urethra, especially during or after urination
Persistent or unnoticed discharge (e.g., chlamydia), which may lead to chronic complications if left untreated
Signs That Should Not Be Ignored
Sticky or crusted urethral opening
Stains on underwear from dried discharge
Discomfort or discharge noticed especially in the morning
Detection of threads or flakes in the first portion of urine
Common Causes of Urethral Discharge
Urethral discharge is a key symptom in both urology and venereology. It often suggests urethritis—inflammation of the urethral lining caused by:
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, ureaplasmosis, mycoplasmosis
Non-specific bacteria entering from other pelvic organs due to inflammation, weakened immunity, or poor hygiene
Chemical or mechanical irritation from urinary crystals or stones
Prostate or penile cancer, particularly if blood is present in the discharge
Discharge Color and Consistency
Gray and thick: High epithelial cell content
Yellow or green: Elevated leukocytes due to infection
White and curd-like: Indicative of male candidiasis (yeast infection)
Note: The same disease may show different types of discharge at different stages.
Diagnosis and Testing
Accurate diagnosis requires consultation with a urologist or venereologist, who will assess your symptoms and recommend specific tests:
Microscopy of the discharge to identify leukocytes, epithelial cells, and pathogens
Bacterial culture to grow and identify microorganisms and test antibiotic sensitivity
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) to detect even trace amounts of microbial DNA and identify the exact infectious agent
Important Recommendations
Avoid taking any medication before your appointment, as it may interfere with accurate diagnosis.
Do not attempt self-treatment based on others’ experiences — similar symptoms can have different causes.
If an STI is diagnosed, both sexual partners must be treated to prevent reinfection.
Prevention Tips
Avoid casual sexual encounters
Use protection during sex
Dress appropriately for the weather
Maintain proper personal hygiene
Early detection and timely treatment are essential for preventing long-term complications. Always seek professional guidance rather than relying on self-diagnosis or self-medication.
