Meatus pain swelling

[Jay602]

I am 26 and a sexually active male. I have one partner for 4 yrs and we have unprotected sex.   Just  a few days ago I noticed my urethra lups or meatus seemed to be a bit irritated, no pain or discomfort or drainage. Just a tad red on the lower half of each side.  A couple days ago I would continuously check myself, I would notice it red sometimes and normal other but the lips seemed to shiny or skin cell more defined.  
If felt achy sometimes but I switched to looser boxers. Yesterday the meatus would irritate but it think it was due to movement. Today  the meatus on one side appears a little thicker or plump   and I noticed a slight pain after I peed. Not sure if it's I
Just me being paranoid but, not kinda aches when my better feels full.  

There has been no leakage or draining from my penis. And aching only lasts a  couple mins.  Sometimes feel like a pinching feeling.  

Just need some advice. I currently am unemployed and can't afford too many med bills.  Would like an idea of what may be going on so I don't have to pay for too many tests. I know I should get tested I just want to narrow this down before I go.    Please help I am really nervous.