STD - GONORRHEA Symptom Definition Seeking information about gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted disease. Women In women, gonorrhea most commonly causes an infection of the cervix or the urethra. Symptoms for women can sometimes be mild and not very specific. Symptoms may include increased vaginal discharge, abnormal menstrual bleeding, painful sexual intercourse, or burning with urination. Sometimes a woman can have no symptoms at all. If not treated, gonorrhea can cause significant complications (e.g., pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, ectopic pregnancy). Men In men, gonorrhea usually causes urethritis (infection of the tube inside the penis that carries urine out of the body). Most men with gonorrhea will have symptoms. The most common symptoms are discharge from the penis (white or yellow) and burning with urination. If not treated, gonorrhea can cause significant complications (e.g., epididymitis). Women and Men In both men and women, gonorrhea can sometimes cause an infection of the throat or of the rectum. A person with gonorrhea is contagious until he or she has been treated with antibiotics. General Information Gonorrhea is caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrheae. Other common names for gonorrhea are “GC”, the “clap”, or the “drip”. See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If PENIS SYMPTOMS (male genital symptoms) VULVAR SYMPTOMS (female genital symptoms) Questions about CHLAMYDIA, a sexually transmitted disease Questions about GENITAL HERPES, a sexually transmitted disease Questions about HIV, a sexually transmitted disease Questions about PUBIC LICE, a sexually transmitted disease Questions about TRICHOMONAS, a sexually transmitted disease WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR GONORRHEA Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If You were forced to have sex (sexual assault or rape) You are a female with: Fever and burning (pain) with urination Constant lower abdominal pain lasting more than 2 hours Unable to urinate for more than 4 hours, and bladder feels very full You are a male with: Fever and burning (pain) with urination Fever and testicle pain or swelling Unable to urinate for more than 4 hours, and bladder feels very full Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9am and 4pm) If You think you need to be seen You are a female with: Burning (pain) with urination Unexplained lower abdominal pain Abnormal color of vaginal discharge (i.e. yellow, green, gray) Bad smelling vaginal discharge Rectal discharge; or unusual rectal pain or itching You are a male with: Burning (pain) with urination Pus (white, yellow) or bloody discharge from end of penis Testicle pain or swelling Rectal discharge; or unusual rectal pain or itching Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If You have other questions or concerns You are worried you might have a sexually transmitted disease You had sexual intercourse (oral, vaginal, or anal) with someone who was diagnosed with gonorrhea (Reason: you will need to be tested and treated) Self Care at Home If No symptoms and you don't think you need to be seen Questions about Gonorrhea Back to Top HOME CARE ADVICE FOR GONORRHEA How is gonorrhea transmitted? By intercourse (vaginal or anal), or oral sex. How long does it usually take for symptoms to appear once one is exposed? The incubation period for gonorrhea is 2-7 days. Sometimes people (especially women) can become infected and not show any symptoms. How can I get tested for gonorrhea? Gonorrhea is diagnosed by taking swabs of the urethra, vagina, throat, or rectum. What is the treatment for gonorrhea? Antibiotic therapy is needed. A person with gonorrhea is contagious until he or she has been treated. Sexual partners should be evaluated and treated. STD National Hotline The CDC National STD Hotline provides information on sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, HPV/genital warts, herpes, and HIV/AIDS. Specialists can provide general information, referrals to local clinics, and written materials about STDs and disease prevention. Toll-free number (English): (800) 227-8922 Toll-free number (Spanish): (800) 344-7432 Their website is at: http://www.ashastd.org/N Pregnancy Test When In Doubt: If there is any doubt about the possibility of pregnancy, then obtain and use a urine pregnancy test from the store. Call Your Doctor If: Pregnancy test is positive; or if you have difficulties with the home pregnancy test. Discharge from penis or unusual vaginal discharge You become worse or develop any of the “Call Your Doctor” symptoms. References and Resources American Social Health Association “Answers to your questions about teen sexual health and sexually transmitted diseases”. http://www.iwannaknow.org Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines 2002. MMWR. 2002; 51(RR-6):1-80. Public Health Agency of Canada Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI), Sexual Health Facts and Information http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/std-mts/faq_e.aspx Back to Top Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information. Adult HouseCalls Online. Copyright © 2000-2005 David Thompson, M.D. FACEP Reviewed 6/2005 Revised 6/2005 View Anatomic Index of Topics