Four separate doctors have diagnosed both my boyfriend and me with non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) on two separate occasions. We were told that it is a sexually transmitted disease that is due to chlamydia or gonorrhea. However, our test results for these diseases came back negative every time. Where can I find out more about NGU? What is it and where did it really come from?

--Shantell

"NGU" is non-gonococcal urethritis -- inflammation of the urethra (where urine exits the bladder) caused by something other than gonorrhea. Chlamydia, another sexually transmitted disease, is the most common culprit, although other organisms may be implicated.

Another possible cause is mycoplasma. This organism can be very difficult to detect, but a 10-day course of doxycycline (often used to treat chlamydia) will eradicate it. It is important to refrain from intercourse until both of you have completed the course of treatment.