Gonorrhea Treatment

Gonorrhea is a common STI caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can affect both men and women. The infection often targets the urethra, but it can also affect the rectum, throat, and in some cases, the cervix. Because gonorrhea frequently causes mild or no symptoms, it often goes undiagnosed, increasing the risk of complications and further spread.

Gonorrhea is transmitted through sexual intercourse or direct vaginal, oral, or anal contact. Pregnant women can also transmit the disease to their babies during vaginal childbirth, and the disease often affects the eyes of newborns.

The use of latex condoms including other protective measures will help decrease the risk of infection for anyone having sexual intercourse. Having monogamous relationships with partners who have previously tested negative or abstain from anal, oral, or vaginal intercourse also reduces the chance of infection.

Symptoms in men include:

• Pain and burning with urination
• Increased frequency or urgency of urination
• Discharge from the penis (white, yellow, or green color)
• Tender or swollen testicles
• Sore throat (gonococcal pharyngitis)

Symptoms in women include:

• Abnormal/Increased vaginal discharge or bleeding with strong odor
• Bleeding between periods/heavier periods
• Burning sensation when urinating
• Pain (and/or bleeding) during sex
• Bleeding after sex

Many people with gonorrhea experience no symptoms at all—especially women—but can still transmit the infection to others during sexual contact. This makes regular STI testing essential if you are sexually active and at risk.

Based on the most recent evidence, CDC recommends:

• Ceftriaxone 500 mg IM as a single dose for uncomplicated gonococcal infections of the cervix, anus, urethra, and pharynx.
• If ceftriaxone is not available or you are allergic to this medication, gentamicin 240 mg IM as a single dose plus azithromycin 2 g orally as a single dose can be substituted.

It is important to wait seven days after completing treatment before having sexual intercourse again to avoid reinfection or transmission to a sexual partner.

Prompt treatment for gonorrhea is essential—not just to relieve symptoms but to prevent the infection from causing severe damage to your body. Left untreated, this bacterial infection can lead to serious health issues that spread far beyond the genital area. Gonorrhea is also known to increase the risk of transmitting or acquiring HIV.

With modern prescription treatment, gonorrhea can be easily cured in most cases. We can prescribe antibiotics after your online doctor visit—with medication sent to your local pharmacy, usually within hours.

Don’t wait. With 24hrdoc’s online treatment, you can address gonorrhea quickly, safely, and privately—before it leads to long-term serious health problems.

Many people who have gonorrhea show no symptoms at all. That’s why knowing who should get tested is critical for protecting your sexual health and preventing severe complications. If you’re sexually active, especially with new or multiple sexual partners, routine STI testing is strongly recommended.

You should consider getting tested for gonorrhea if any of the following apply:

• You’re under 25 and sexually active
• You have a new and/or multiple sexual partners
• You’ve tested positive for another sexually transmitted infection
• You’re experiencing STD symptoms such as unusual discharge, pain during urination, or pelvic discomfort
• A sexual partner has been diagnosed with gonorrhea or another bacterial infection

Gonorrhea can be cured with prompt antibiotic treatment, but delaying care increases your risk of complications and transmitting the infection. It’s also important that your sexual partner gets treated to avoid reinfection and stop the spread. At 24hrdoc, we offer fast, discreet treatment, including STD test referrals and prescription medications sent to your local pharmacy—all from the comfort of home.