Do I Need to Get Tested for Gonorrhea After 2 Months of No Symptoms?

Q: Do I Need to Get Tested for Gonorrhea After 2 Months of No Symptoms?

Hello： You can choose to test or not, but it's best to confirm normal results through a urine test. <br>Wishing you good health.

Do I need to be tested for carrier status if I have been symptom-free for two months?

Dear Doctor: Around May 14, I started experiencing pain near the urethral opening, which I initially thought was due to masturbation or excessive strain.
On the morning of May 17, I noticed my underwear had some discharge, and by the evening of May 17, I observed a continuous flow of white discharge from the urethral opening.
After wiping with tissue, it continued to flow, which made me concerned that I might have contracted something (I had seen pictures of gonorrhea before).
On the evening of May 18, I showed the pictures to a urologist, who diagnosed me with gonorrhea.
I was surprised as it was my first time being infected with a sexually transmitted infection.
The doctor mentioned that a single injection would cure the gonorrhea and did not mention any need for a follow-up visit or prescribe any oral medication.
He administered Ceftriaxone 2000mg/vial (intravenous) and 100ml of Normal Saline (NS) for the injection.
After about half an hour of the IV drip, the discharge stopped that evening, and the next day, my underwear showed no traces of discharge.
The left side of the urethral opening, which was initially red, swollen, and somewhat deformed (I was worried it wouldn't return to its original state), gradually improved and returned to normal after a week.
I no longer experienced any irregular urination.
It has been nearly two months since I recovered, and everything looks normal without any symptoms or abnormalities.
Since the level 3 pandemic alert, I have not engaged in any sexual activity for over two months.
However, if I wish to have sexual relations with someone now, I am concerned and worried about whether I still carry any bacteria that could be transmitted to others.
Since late May, I have had no symptoms of gonorrhea.
Do I need to get tested to check if I still have gonorrhea bacteria? Thank you.

chuan, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/18

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: You can choose to test or not, but it's best to confirm normal results through a urine test.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/07/18

More Info

When it comes to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like gonorrhea, it's understandable to feel concerned about your health and the potential risk of transmission to others. Based on your description, it seems you experienced symptoms consistent with gonorrhea, received appropriate treatment, and have since recovered without any further symptoms. However, your question about whether you need to get tested after two months of no symptoms is valid and important.

Gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and it can lead to various complications if left untreated. The treatment you received, which included Ceftriaxone, is a standard and effective regimen for gonorrhea. Typically, a single dose of Ceftriaxone is sufficient to clear the infection in most cases. Since you reported that your symptoms resolved quickly after treatment, this is a positive sign that the infection was effectively managed.

However, it is important to note that while symptoms may resolve, testing is still recommended to ensure that the infection has been completely cleared. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals who have been treated for gonorrhea should undergo a follow-up test approximately one week after treatment to confirm that the infection has been eradicated. Additionally, if you had any sexual partners during the time you were symptomatic, they should also be tested and treated if necessary to prevent reinfection.

Given that it has been nearly two months since your treatment and you have not engaged in any sexual activity, you may feel reassured about your current status. However, if you plan to engage in sexual activity with a new partner, it is advisable to get tested for gonorrhea and other STIs, even if you are asymptomatic. This is not only for your peace of mind but also to ensure the health and safety of your partner.

Testing for STIs, including gonorrhea, is a straightforward process and can often be done through a urine test or a swab of the affected area. Many clinics and healthcare providers offer confidential testing, which can help alleviate any concerns about privacy. It's also a good opportunity to discuss any other sexual health concerns you may have, including testing for other STIs such as chlamydia, syphilis, and HIV.

In summary, while your symptoms have resolved and you have not experienced any further issues, it is still prudent to get tested for gonorrhea before engaging in sexual activity again. This will help ensure that you are not carrying any infection that could be transmitted to a partner. Regular testing is an essential part of maintaining sexual health, especially after experiencing symptoms or being diagnosed with an STI. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

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