Conditions and diseases
Caruncula urethrae
Symptoms and causes
What is it?
A caruncula urethrae is a benign, red, wart-like tissue thickening that bulges out of the urethra (the opening for urine). Caruncula urethrae typically occurs in women after menopause.
Symptoms
- The feeling of a foreign object in the vulvar region
- Blood loss (usually in the urine)
- Pain during sex
Diagnosis and treatment
Clinical examination will reveal a small red swelling at the end of the urethra (the opening for urine).
The small tumour is sometimes removed surgically. Usually, however, this type of benign swelling does not require any treatment at all.
Treatment centres and specialisations

Latest publication date: 25/01/2021
Supervising author: Dr Ameye Filip