Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea in females may cause increased or unusual vaginal discharge (often yellow or green), burning or pain on urination, pelvic or lower abdominal pain, and abnormal vaginal bleeding between periods or after sex. Untreated infection can cause fever, severe pelvic pain from pelvic inflammatory disease, and infertility. Some women are asymptomatic. Rectal or throat infection can cause pain, discharge, or sore throat after exposure.

Gonorrhea’s incubation is usually 2–10 days, though many infections are asymptomatic. Untreated gonorrhea can persist for months to years and may cause serious complications (PID, infertility). With recommended antibiotics it’s usually cured; symptoms often improve within a few days and a test-of-cure is advised about 1–2 weeks for certain cases. Reinfection is possible if partners aren’t treated.

Gonorrhea symptoms usually appear within 2–14 days after exposure. Men often develop symptoms sooner (around 2–5 days)—painful urination and discharge—while women may have milder or no symptoms and can present later. Many infections remain asymptomatic for weeks to months. If you suspect exposure, get tested promptly because untreated infection can cause complications.

Gonorrhea usually does not reliably heal on its own. Symptoms may briefly lessen, but the bacteria often persist, risking complications (pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, or bloodstream spread) and ongoing transmission. Effective antibiotic treatment and partner testing are necessary; delays increase health risks. If you suspect exposure or symptoms, see a healthcare professional for testing and appropriate therapy.

Ceftriaxone is the recommended first-line antibiotic for uncomplicated gonorrhea — a single intramuscular dose (typically 500 mg; higher if ≥150 kg). Because chlamydia often co-occurs, doxycycline 100 mg orally twice daily for seven days may be given if chlamydia hasn’t been excluded. Rising resistance means follow-up, partner treatment, and test-of-cure for pharyngeal infection or persistent symptoms are important.

Early signs of antibiotic‑resistant (“super”) gonorrhea mirror regular gonorrhe