Gonorrhea Treatment: What to Expect After Diagnosis - Urology

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Gonorrhea, caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can affect both men and women. Your prompt action in seeking medical attention after experiencing symptoms is commendable, as early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for effective management of the infection.

After being diagnosed with gonorrhea, the standard treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics. In your case, it sounds like you received an injection of a long-acting antibiotic, likely ceftriaxone, along with oral antibiotics, which may include azithromycin or doxycycline. This dual therapy is recommended to effectively treat the infection and reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Regarding your specific questions:
1. Is the treatment considered a cure?
After completing the prescribed antibiotic regimen, most patients are effectively cured of gonorrhea. However, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider for a test of cure, especially if you continue to experience symptoms. The absence of white discharge is a positive sign, but persistent symptoms like frequent urination and mild itching may indicate that the infection has not been fully resolved or that there could be another underlying issue, such as a co-infection or irritation.

2. What about the risk of transmission?
You mentioned that your doctor advised against sexual activity for seven days following treatment. This recommendation is crucial because even if you feel better, there may still be residual bacteria in your system, which could pose a risk of transmission to sexual partners. It is generally advised to wait until you have completed the full course of treatment and have been cleared by your healthcare provider before resuming sexual activity. If you have not yet returned for a follow-up appointment, it is wise to abstain from sexual intercourse until you receive confirmation that the infection has been cleared.

3. What to expect after treatment?
After treatment, it is common for symptoms to improve within a few days. However, if symptoms persist beyond a week or worsen, you should contact your healthcare provider. They may recommend additional testing to rule out other STIs or complications. It is also important to inform any recent sexual partners about your diagnosis so they can seek testing and treatment if necessary.

4. Preventive measures moving forward:
To reduce the risk of future STIs, consider the following:
- Use condoms consistently and correctly during sexual activity.

- Have regular STI screenings, especially if you have new or multiple partners.

- Engage in open communication with partners about sexual health and STI testing.

In summary, while your treatment appears to be on the right track, it is essential to complete the full course of antibiotics and follow up with your healthcare provider to ensure the infection has been fully resolved. If you have any concerns or if symptoms persist, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor for further evaluation.