Gonorrhea Treatment: When to Follow Up with Your Doctor

Gonorrhea Treatment Protocol

Recently, I was diagnosed with gonorrhea and received an injection for treatment.
The doctor mentioned that I would feel better the next day, but by the third day, I still have discharge.
Should I return for a follow-up appointment or continue to monitor my symptoms until I finish the antibiotics?

123, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/25

Dr. Wu Shuyu reply Urology

It may be associated with other infections such as Mycoplasma infection, which requires combined treatment.

Reply Date: 2020/09/25

More Info

When it comes to the treatment of gonorrhea, it is crucial to understand the nature of the infection and the effectiveness of the prescribed treatment. Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The standard treatment typically involves antibiotics, and in many cases, a single injection of ceftriaxone or a combination of antibiotics is administered.
In your case, since you received an injection for the treatment of gonorrhea, it is important to monitor your symptoms closely. The expectation is that symptoms, including discharge, should begin to improve within a few days after treatment. However, it is not uncommon for some symptoms to persist for a short period even after effective treatment.
Here are some key points to consider regarding your situation:
1. Timing of Symptoms Improvement: While many patients may notice a significant reduction in symptoms within 24 to 48 hours post-treatment, it is not unusual for some residual symptoms to linger for a few days. If you are still experiencing discharge three days after treatment, it may not necessarily indicate treatment failure, but it is essential to keep an eye on the situation.

2. Follow-Up with Your Doctor: It is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider if symptoms do not improve or worsen after a few days. If the discharge continues beyond a week or if you develop new symptoms such as increased pain, fever, or any other concerning signs, you should seek medical attention promptly.
3. Completing Antibiotic Course: If you were prescribed oral antibiotics in addition to the injection, it is crucial to complete the entire course as directed by your doctor, even if you start feeling better. This helps ensure that the infection is fully cleared and reduces the risk of developing antibiotic resistance.

4. Testing for Reinfection: After treatment, it is also important to get retested for gonorrhea and other STIs, especially if you have new sexual partners or if your partner has not been treated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends testing for gonorrhea three months after treatment, as reinfection is common.

5. Avoiding Sexual Activity: To prevent spreading the infection to others, it is recommended to abstain from sexual activity until you and your partner have completed treatment and are symptom-free.
In summary, while it is reasonable to observe your symptoms for a few days after treatment, you should not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if you have concerns about persistent symptoms. Early follow-up can help address any potential complications and ensure that you receive the appropriate care. Remember, effective communication with your healthcare provider is key to managing your health and ensuring a successful recovery from gonorrhea.

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