May also be called: Painful Urination

Dysuria (dis-YOOR-ee-ah) is painful or difficult urination.

More to Know

Urine (pee) is stored in the bladder. When we urinate (pee), urine exits the body through a tube called the urethra. If there's an infection or inflammation somewhere in the urinary tract, a person might feel a burning, painful sensation.

Some causes of dysuria include kidney stones; sexually transmitted infections (STIs, also called sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs) like genital herpes; vaginal infections; certain medications; irritants like certain soaps or bubble baths; and prostate inflammation.

A urinary tract infection (UTI) should be treated with medication.

Keep in Mind

Dysuria is a fairly common condition and an isolated episode of painful urination usually is not a cause for alarm. If it persists, is severe, or is associated with other symptoms like fever, blood in the urine, or vomiting, contact your doctor.

All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts.