Urinary frequency describes the need to urinate more often than normal, although there is no increase in the amount of urine. In fact, the amount of urine is often reduced. Urgency is the sudden need to urinate. People with these symptoms may also have a burning sensation or pain when urinating. Although a urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most likely cause, sexually transmitted infections (STDs) and other diseases can also cause these symptoms.
Urinary tract infection
The urinary tract includes the urethra, bladder, ureters and kidneys. UTIs are usually caused by bacteria, and women are at greater risk of developing UTIs than men. UTIs are not sexually transmitted, but sexual activity or having a new sexual partner can increase the risk of infection. Even though they might be asymptomaticUTIs can cause discolored urine (red, pink, or cloudy), foul-smelling urine, burning when urinating, frequent or urgent need to urinate, and pelvic pain. They are usually treated with antibiotics.
STD causes
STDs often cause no symptoms, but they can cause symptoms like those of a urinary tract infection. The only way to find out if you have a urinary tract infection or an STD is to get tested.
Chlamydia
This STD is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, a type of bacteria. As explained by The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), most people with chlamydia have no symptoms. However, men and women may experience painful or frequent urination. Unlike urinary tract infections, chlamydia can also cause vaginal or penile discharge, pain during sex and, in women, bleeding between periods. Chlamydia can also infect the rectum and cause bleeding and discharge. Chlamydia can be easily treated with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. However, left untreated, chlamydia can cause infertility in both men and women.
Gonorrhea
According to the CDCGonorrhea, like chlamydia, is a treatable STD. It is usually asymptomatic, although in women it can also cause painful urination, vaginal or penile discharge, pain during sex, bleeding between periods, and rectal pain and discharge. It is caused by a bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhea and is treated with antibiotics. Like chlamydia, it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility if left untreated.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is a common STD caused by Trichomonas vaginalis–a protozoan. Many people with ‘trich’, especially men, have no symptoms. However, it can cause pain during urination and vaginal itching, burning and discharge. Usually only one dose of antibiotics is needed to treat this infection.
Non-STD causes
Frequent urination can be caused by other problems in the urinary tract, including an enlarged prostate, kidney problems, urinary incontinence and an overactive bladder. Some people need to urinate more often because they produce more urine; increased urine production can be caused by water pills (diuretics), increased fluid intake or diabetes. Diabetes is actually very common and is caused by an abnormal amount of sugar in the bloodstream. Increased urination is a common symptom, along with increased thirst, irritability and fatigue.
The only way to determine the cause of frequent urination is to contact a healthcare provider. If you suspect that an STD is causing this symptom, make sure you get tested as soon as possible so you can receive treatment.