Can You Get Gonorrhea from a Monogamous Partner? Risks and Treatment

Hello, doctor. Can a fixed sexual partner also contract gonorrhea?

Doctor, a few days ago I experienced painful urination and had purulent discharge.
I went to the urology department, and the doctor diagnosed me with gonorrhea.
I felt very anxious because I have never had a sexually transmitted infection before, and my only sexual partner is my girlfriend.
I explained this to the doctor, but he emphasized that "oral sex can also transmit the infection," which left me puzzled.
Could it be that my girlfriend performed oral sex on me and caused the infection? My girlfriend is very careful, and it seems unlikely that she contracted it from someone else.
We have had unprotected intercourse and oral sex, but can a fixed sexual partner still contract gonorrhea? If we both undergo treatment, how long should we abstain from sexual activity after recovery to ensure safety?

Bai Si Bu Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/04/13

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are not exclusively transmitted through sexual intercourse.
They can also be contracted through contact in public places, such as using a mouse at an internet café or through inadequately sanitized bed linens.
After treatment, if there is concern about transmission, measures such as using condoms can be employed for up to three weeks to slightly reduce contact.
Additionally, there are instances where treatment may not be fully effective, so it is essential to wait for a physician's confirmation of cure before discontinuing medication.

Reply Date: 2010/04/13

More Info

Gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, can indeed be contracted from a monogamous partner, even if both partners have been faithful to each other. This situation can be perplexing, especially when one partner believes they have only had sexual contact with the other.
Firstly, it is essential to understand that gonorrhea can be transmitted through various forms of sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. If your girlfriend performed oral sex on you, she could have contracted the infection from another source, such as a previous partner, and then transmitted it to you. It is also possible for someone to be asymptomatic, meaning they carry the infection without showing any symptoms. This can lead to a situation where one partner unknowingly transmits the infection to the other.

In your case, if you have been experiencing symptoms such as painful urination and purulent discharge, it is crucial to follow your doctor's advice and get treated promptly. Gonorrhea is typically treated with antibiotics, and both partners should be treated simultaneously to prevent reinfection.
Regarding your question about the duration of abstaining from sexual activity, it is generally recommended to avoid sexual intercourse until both you and your girlfriend have completed the treatment and have been cleared of the infection. This usually means waiting at least seven days after completing the antibiotic regimen, but it is best to follow your healthcare provider's specific recommendations.
Additionally, it is advisable to get tested for other STIs, as gonorrhea often coexists with other infections, such as chlamydia. Regular STI screenings are essential for sexually active individuals, even in monogamous relationships, as they help catch infections early and prevent further transmission.

In summary, gonorrhea can be contracted from a monogamous partner, especially through oral sex. It is crucial to communicate openly with your partner about sexual health, get treated together, and abstain from sexual activity until both of you are cleared of the infection. Regular screenings and safe sexual practices, such as using condoms, can significantly reduce the risk of STIs in the future. If you have further concerns or questions, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

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