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Pain When Passing Urine

Pain when passing urine means burning, stinging or discomfort during urination. The pain may come from inside the urinary tract or from irritated skin around the genitals.

Urinary tract infections are a common cause. Soap, bubble bath, skin irritation, vulvovaginitis, balanitis and other genital or urinary problems can also cause painful urination.

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AAP Guide to Pain When Passing Urine

The AAP guide below explains common reasons for painful urination and when to bring your child in.

AAP Symptom CheckerPain passing urine

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Pain or burning continues or keeps returning.
  • Your child develops fever.
  • Your child urinates much more often or has new accidents.
  • Blood appears in the urine.
  • Your child has back or side pain.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child cannot urinate.
  • Severe side or back pain comes with repeated vomiting or severe illness.
  • You think your child has a life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on peeing and private parts

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