NGU & NSU: NON-GONOCOCCAL AND NON-SPECIFIC URETHRITIS Test in London

NGU (Non-Gonococcal Urethritis) and NSU (Non-Specific Urethritis) are infections causing inflammation of the urethra, typically resulting from unprotected sexual activities. NGU is often caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. NSU, while not typically caused by gonorrhea or chlamydia, can result from various factors, including irritation or allergies, and may lead to complications like decreased fertility.

Causes

NGU and NSU are usually transmitted during unprotected sexual activities. Extreme cases might arise from excessive friction during sex or masturbation, or allergic reactions to detergents or soaps. In HIV-infected individuals not on treatment, untreated NGU/NSU may increase the viral load in genital fluids. Conversely, those on HIV treatment are less likely to transmit the virus. HIV-negative individuals with NGU/NSU may be at increased risk of contracting HIV.

When should I get tested?

Symptoms of NGU/NSU can be mild, go unnoticed, or appear immediately. Some symptoms might take weeks to develop, while others, such as reactions to irritants like soap, may be immediate. In some cases, symptoms are so mild they go undetected.

Symptoms:

• Frequent urination
• Burning or pain during urination
• Irritation at the penis tip
• Symptoms triggered by irritants like soap
• Cloudy or white genital discharge, often noticeable in the morning

What does the test include?

Men can be diagnosed with NGU/NSU through a swab test on the penis tip or a urine test, or both. Chlamydia, often associated with NGU, can take about a week to be detected. Women are typically tested if their partner is diagnosed with NGU, usually through a vaginal or cervical swab.

What to Expect

Price

	Price	Turnaround
NGU and NSU Test	£71	3 Days

FAQS

How can you prevent yourself from NGU/NSU?

Use a condom when having anal, oral, or vaginal sex to prevent the infection that causes NGU/NSU or pass it on to others.

Some measures are the following:

• Do not share sex toys with others
• Regular testing for NGU/NSU and other STIs is advised for sexually active individuals. 

How can I treat NGU/NSU?

NGU/NSU can be effectively treated with antibiotics. The typical regimen includes a 7-day course of doxycycline, although a 5-day course of azithromycin or a 7-day course of ofloxacin may also be recommended. It's crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed to fully clear the infection. Note that azithromycin may take longer to work, and symptoms could persist for a few days after beginning treatment. 

If diagnosed with an NGU/NSU infection, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider for advice on safe sexual practices. Additionally, you should inform your sexual partners about the infection so they can also be tested and treated if necessary. 

A follow-up appointment, either in person at the clinic or over the phone, is typically scheduled for 2 or 3 weeks after treatment begins. This is to ensure that the infection has been fully cleared. Such follow-ups are crucial in preventing re-infection. During treatment, and until you are symptom-free, it's advised to abstain from sexual activity, even with the use of condoms, to ensure complete recovery and prevent the spread of the infection.