Gonorrhea: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to See a Doctor - Urology

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Gonorrhea, caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. The symptoms you and your boyfriend are experiencing—painful urination and yellow-green discharge—are classic signs of gonorrhea. It's important to understand that while some antibiotics may treat urinary tract infections (UTIs), they may not be effective against gonorrhea, which requires specific antibiotic treatment.


Symptoms of Gonorrhea
Common symptoms of gonorrhea include:
- Painful urination (dysuria)
- Increased urinary frequency
- Yellow or green discharge from the penis or vagina
- Pain during intercourse
- Abdominal or pelvic pain
- In women, symptoms may also include vaginal bleeding between periods.

In some cases, gonorrhea can be asymptomatic, especially in women, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment.


Treatment
The standard treatment for gonorrhea typically involves a dual therapy approach, which includes:
- Ceftriaxone: An injectable antibiotic.

- Azithromycin: An oral antibiotic.

This combination is recommended to effectively treat the infection and to combat the rising issue of antibiotic resistance.

Since you mentioned that you were prescribed medication for a urinary tract infection, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. If the prescribed antibiotics did not alleviate your symptoms, it is possible that the treatment was insufficient for gonorrhea, or you may have a co-infection or another underlying issue.


When to See a Doctor
You should definitely see a doctor again, particularly a healthcare provider specializing in sexual health or a gynecologist. Here are some reasons to seek further medical attention:
1. Persistent Symptoms: If you continue to experience painful urination and abnormal discharge after completing your medication, this warrants further investigation.

2. Potential Complications: Untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious complications, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can cause chronic pain and infertility.

3. Testing for Other STIs: Since gonorrhea often coexists with other STIs, it is advisable to get tested for chlamydia and other infections.

4. Partner Notification and Treatment: It is essential that your boyfriend also receives appropriate treatment to prevent reinfection.


Importance of Follow-Up
Delaying treatment can lead to chronic infections and complications. If you suspect you have gonorrhea, it is critical to seek appropriate testing and treatment. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough examination, including a pelvic exam if necessary, and provide the right antibiotics to clear the infection.


Conclusion
In summary, while the initial treatment for a urinary tract infection may have provided some relief, it is unlikely to have fully addressed the gonorrhea infection. It is essential to return to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and appropriate treatment. Early intervention is key to preventing complications and ensuring a full recovery. Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and any concerns you may have regarding your sexual health.