Gonorrhea: What You Need to Know

If you’ve heard the name gonorrhea before, you probably wonder what it really does to your body and how easy it is to fix. The short answer: it’s a common STI that shows up with clear signs and can be cured with the right antibiotics. Below we break down the basics so you can spot it early, get treated fast, and keep it from coming back.

Typical symptoms and when they show up

Both men and women may feel a burning sensation when they pee, but the details differ. Men often notice a white‑yellow discharge from the penis within a week or two after exposure. Women might have extra vaginal fluid, pain during sex, or a mild fever that’s easy to miss because it looks like a regular infection.

Some people never get symptoms at all – they’re called “asymptomatic” and can still pass the bug on. That’s why testing is key if you’ve had unprotected sex, even when you feel fine.

How doctors treat gonorrhea

The good news: modern gonorrhea responds well to a single dose of an injectable antibiotic called ceftriaxone, often paired with oral azithromycin. The combo kills the bacteria and reduces the chance it becomes resistant.

Take the meds exactly as your doctor says. Skipping doses or using leftover pills can let the infection linger and make it harder to treat later. After treatment, most clinics ask you to come back in a week for a check‑up to be sure everything’s gone.

If you’re pregnant, early treatment is extra important because gonorrhea can harm the baby. Your provider will choose safe antibiotics that protect both of you.

Preventing future infections

The easiest way to stay clear is using condoms every time you have sex. Condoms block the bacteria from moving between partners, and they work just as well for oral, vaginal, or anal contact.

Getting tested regularly – at least once a year if you’re sexually active – catches infections before they spread. Talk openly with your partner about test results; sharing this info builds trust and keeps both of you safe.

If you notice any weird discharge, burning when you pee, or pain after sex, don’t wait. A quick doctor visit saves you from complications like pelvic inflammatory disease in women or epididymitis in men, which can affect fertility.

Remember, gonorrhea is common and treatable. Knowing the signs, getting tested, and using protection are the three steps that keep it under control.