If you think that you have non-specific urethritis (NSU), you should visit your local genito-urinary medicine (GUM) clinic, sexual health clinic, or family planning clinic. These clinics have access to specialist diagnostic equipment that is probably not readily available to your GP.
Swab test
There are two tests that are often used to diagnose NSU. The first test involves taking a small sample of cells from your urethra.
The cells are taken using a swab, which is like a small cotton bud with a plastic loop at the end. The swab is not painful but it can feel a little uncomfortable for a few seconds.
Urine test
The second test is a urine test. You may be asked not to urinate for two hours before taking the test because this can help improve the reliability of the test results.
The urine and swab samples are checked under a microscope for bacteria, or viruses, that are known to cause NSU. Some clinics may be able to provide test results in a few hours, or days. However, other clinics may need to send the samples to a laboratory for testing, in which case the test results may not be available for a few weeks.
Urethra
The urethra is a tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body.
Swab
A swab is a small piece of absorbent material, such as gauze or cotton, attached to the end of a stick or wire. Swabs are used to clean wounds, apply medicine, or to absorb samples of body fluids so that they can be tested.
Bacteria
Bacteria are tiny, single-celled organisms that live in the body. Some can cause illness and disease and some others are good for you.
