With proper treatment, gonorrhea usually clears within 24 to 48 hours after taking the prescribed antibiotic. The cure can be confirmed through a urine test, semen test, or a sample collected from the urethra (in men) or the vagina (in women). Symptoms generally go away once the infection has been treated.
If a test that detects the bacteria's DNA is used, it should be done at least 10 days after taking the antibiotic. Doing the test earlier may still give a positive result, even if the infection is already cured.
Treatment for gonorrhea is typically a single dose of antibiotics. However, in some cases, the infection may not respond because the bacteria are resistant to the medication. When this happens, a different antibiotic is needed to achieve a cure. Learn more about the available treatment options for gonorrhea.
If you suspect gonorrhea, it is important to see an infectious disease specialist. They can order the necessary tests and recommend the best treatment to prevent complications.