Gonorrhea: Concerns and Questions About Infection Risks

Q: Gonorrhea: Concerns and Questions About Infection Risks

Hello： To confirm gonorrhea, a sufficient amount of Neisseria gonorrhoeae is needed, so there is no need to worry too much. <br>However, since you are 50 years old and have reached the age for regular prostate check-ups, please ask your doctor to include a urine test at that time

Panic about Gonorrhea

Hello Dr.
Du,
A few days ago, I saw a newspaper report about gonorrhea, and it started to make me anxious.
Eighteen years ago, I had a hand job with a sex worker (the only time I engaged in unprotected behavior).
I did ejaculate, but there was no direct contact with the genitalia.
As far as I remember, during the more than ten years since that experience, including the three weeks following it (the incubation period?), I have not experienced any symptoms of gonorrhea (such as urethral discharge, swelling, pain, or burning during urination).
However, over the past decade, I have had a couple of instances of mild discomfort in my lower abdomen and urethra, with increased frequency of urination but low volume, and no significant discharge (at the time, I did not consider the possibility of gonorrhea).
I took anti-inflammatory medication from the pharmacy, drank plenty of water, and felt better the next day.
I would like to ask you:
1.
What is the likelihood of contracting gonorrhea from a hand job without direct genital contact?
2.
If there were indeed symptoms of infection, how pronounced would the discharge and burning sensations be? I am concerned that I may have overlooked something.
3.
Should I tell myself to stop worrying about this, or should I pursue further testing? (It has already been eighteen years.)
4.
I currently have no symptoms related to gonorrhea as outlined in the Q&A history.
Do I need to undergo a urine test? In the absence of symptoms, can bacteria still be cultured from the urine?
Thank you for taking the time to respond.

Konglinzhe, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/11

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: To confirm gonorrhea, a sufficient amount of Neisseria gonorrhoeae is needed, so there is no need to worry too much.
However, since you are 50 years old and have reached the age for regular prostate check-ups, please ask your doctor to include a urine test at that time.
1: Almost never 2: Most of the time it is quite obvious 3: No need to make a special trip 4: If there is a chance, just ask your doctor to pay attention, and relax.

Reply Date: 2017/02/11

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding gonorrhea and your concerns about potential infection risks. It's completely understandable to feel anxious about sexually transmitted infections (STIs), especially given your past experiences. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Risk of Infection from Hand Jobs: The risk of contracting gonorrhea from hand-to-genital contact is generally considered low, especially if there was no direct contact between the genitalia. Gonorrhea is primarily transmitted through sexual intercourse, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. However, if the person performing the hand job had gonorrhea and their hands had come into contact with infected bodily fluids, there is a theoretical risk, albeit minimal. Given that you have not experienced any symptoms in the years following that encounter, it is unlikely that you contracted the infection from that specific incident.

2. Symptoms of Gonorrhea: If gonorrhea were to manifest, symptoms typically include a thick, yellow or green discharge from the urethra, painful urination, and swelling or pain in the testicles. Symptoms can vary in severity, and some individuals may be asymptomatic, meaning they do not show any noticeable signs of infection. The symptoms you described—mild discomfort in the lower abdomen and frequent urination with little output—could be related to various conditions, not necessarily gonorrhea. If you had experienced significant symptoms, it is likely you would have sought medical attention sooner.

3. Should You Get Tested?: Given that it has been 18 years since your last potential exposure and you have not experienced any symptoms, it may not be necessary to dwell on this past incident. However, if you find yourself feeling anxious or if you want peace of mind, getting tested is a reasonable option. Many healthcare providers recommend routine STI screenings for sexually active individuals, particularly if there have been new partners or changes in sexual practices.

4. Testing Without Symptoms: Even in the absence of symptoms, it is still possible to test for gonorrhea through urine samples. The bacteria can be present without causing noticeable symptoms, especially in asymptomatic cases. Testing can provide reassurance and help rule out any infections. If you are concerned about your sexual health, it is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider who can guide you through the testing process and interpret the results.

In conclusion, while your past encounter does raise some concerns, the likelihood of having contracted gonorrhea from that specific incident is low, especially given the absence of symptoms over the years. However, if you are feeling anxious or uncertain, seeking testing can provide clarity and peace of mind. Remember, open communication with healthcare providers about your sexual health is crucial, and they can offer support and guidance tailored to your situation. If you have any further questions or need assistance, don't hesitate to reach out.

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