Gonorrhea Symptoms and Treatment: What You Need to Know - Urology

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Gonorrhea, caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can affect both men and women. Understanding its symptoms, transmission, and treatment is crucial for effective management and prevention of complications.


Symptoms of Gonorrhea
In men, gonorrhea often presents with symptoms such as:
1. Urethral Discharge: This may appear as a white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis. It can sometimes be watery, which aligns with your description of "watery" semen.

2. Dysuria: A burning sensation during urination is common, which you have experienced as a feeling of needing to urinate frequently.

3. Epididymitis: Pain or swelling in the testicles may occur, although this is less common.

4. Rectal Symptoms: If anal intercourse occurs, symptoms may include discharge, anal itching, or pain.

In women, symptoms can be less specific and may include:
1. Increased Vaginal Discharge: Similar to men, women may experience a change in discharge.

2. Dysuria: Painful urination is also common in women.

3. Pelvic Pain: This can indicate a more severe infection, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can occur if gonorrhea is left untreated.


Transmission
Gonorrhea is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. While condoms significantly reduce the risk of transmission, they do not eliminate it entirely, especially in cases of oral sex, as you mentioned. Saliva can carry the bacteria, and oral sex can lead to throat infections, which may not always present symptoms.


Treatment
The standard treatment for gonorrhea involves antibiotics. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a dual therapy approach, typically involving:
1. Ceftriaxone: An injectable antibiotic.

2. Azithromycin: An oral antibiotic.

It is crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication. Follow-up testing is often recommended to ensure the infection has been cleared.


Concerns About Re-infection
If you engage in sexual activity after starting treatment, especially if it is with a new partner or if the partner has not been treated, there is a risk of re-infection. Symptoms can recur if the bacteria are still present or if you have been re-exposed. The feeling of needing to urinate frequently could be a sign of persistent infection or another issue, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI), which can occur concurrently.


Next Steps
Given your ongoing symptoms, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider as soon as possible. They may recommend:
1. Re-testing for Gonorrhea: To confirm whether the infection has been cleared.

2. Testing for Other STIs: Gonorrhea often co-occurs with other STIs, including chlamydia.

3. Assessment for Other Conditions: Such as a UTI or prostatitis, which could explain your urinary symptoms.


Conclusion
In summary, gonorrhea can cause significant discomfort and complications if left untreated. The symptoms you are experiencing, including frequent urination and changes in ejaculation, warrant further evaluation. It is crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and sexual history to ensure appropriate treatment and follow-up care. Always practice safe sex to reduce the risk of STIs, and encourage partners to get tested and treated as necessary.