The Call-On-Doc Guide to Gonorrhea

Symptoms may appear 2–14 days after exposure, but many individuals remain asymptomatic.

Common symptoms include:

In women

• Increased or abnormal vaginal discharge

• Pain or burning during urination

• Pelvic or lower abdominal pain

• Vaginal bleeding between periods

• Pain during intercourse

In men

• Thick white, yellow, or green penile discharge

• Burning or pain during urination

• Testicular pain or swelling

Rectal infection

• Rectal pain, itching, or pressure

• Discharge or bleeding

Throat infection

• Often asymptomatic

• Possible sore throat

Because symptoms may be subtle or absent, routine STI testing is essential.

Gonorrhea is transmitted through:

• Vaginal sex

• Anal sex

• Oral sex

Transmission can occur without ejaculation and even when the infected person feels completely well.

Gonorrhea is diagnosed using nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT), the most accurate method available.

Testing may include:

• Urine testing

• Vaginal, cervical, rectal, or throat swabs

Routine screening is recommended for:

• Sexually active individuals under 25

• People with new or multiple partners

• Anyone with STI symptoms or known exposure

Gonorrhea is treatable, but antibiotic resistance makes proper treatment critical.

Current CDC-recommended treatment typically includes:

• A single intramuscular dose of ceftriaxone

Key treatment guidelines:

• Complete all prescribed treatment

• Avoid sexual activity for 7 days after treatment

• Sexual partners must also be treated

• Retesting is recommended in about 3 months to detect reinfection

Untreated gonorrhea can cause long-term and sometimes permanent health problems.

Possible complications include:

• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

• Chronic pelvic pain

• Infertility

• Ectopic pregnancy

• Epididymitis in men

• Disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI)

• Increased risk of HIV acquisition

Prompt treatment significantly lowers these risks.

CallOnDoc provides confidential, judgment-free gonorrhea care online.

With a virtual visit, you can:

• Discuss symptoms or exposure with a licensed provider

• Receive appropriate treatment guidance

• Avoid in-person clinic wait times

• Access discreet care quickly

Healthcare that fits your life — not your calendar.