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. Back to Articles Related Articles Urinary Tract Infections A urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common reasons that teens visit a doctor. Learn about the symptoms of UTIs, how they're treated, and more in this article. Read More First Aid: Pain With Urinating (Peeing) When it hurts to pee, a urinary tract infection (UTI) is usually to blame. But there are other causes. Here's what to do. Read More Your Urinary System You pee every day, but what makes it happen? Find out in this article for kids about the urinary system. Read More Kidneys and Urinary Tract The kidneys perform several functions that are essential to health, the most important of which are to filter blood and produce urine. Read More Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections and Related Conditions Recurrent urinary tract infections can cause kidney damage if left untreated, especially in kids under age 6. Here's how to recognize the symptom of UTIs and get help for your child. Read More Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in kids. They're easy to treat and usually clear up in a week or so. Read More Your Kidneys You need at least one kidney to live. Find out why in this article for kids. Read More Kidneys and Urinary Tract The bean-shaped kidneys, each about the size of a child's fist, are essential to our health. Their most important role is to filter blood and produce urine. Read More Urine Tests Is your child having a urine culture or urinalysis performed? Find out why urine tests are performed, and what to expect when the doctor orders them. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.