- Gonorrhea in men often causes urethral inflammation, discharge, and pain when urinating, usually appearing 2 to 10 days after exposure.
- A urologist can confirm the diagnosis through symptom evaluation and lab testing of urethral discharge.
- Treatment requires doctor-prescribed antibiotics and partner treatment to prevent reinfection and complications like infertility.
Gonorrhea in men is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which is transmitted mainly through unprotected sexual intercourse.
The first sign of gonorrhea is inflammation of the urethra, which leads to a light-colored discharge that becomes darker over time. Some men may also notice a burning sensation and pain while urinating.
It is important that when signs and symptoms suggestive of gonorrhea appear, a man sees a urologist so the diagnosis can be confirmed and the most appropriate treatment can begin. Treatment involves the use of antibiotics, which helps prevent complications such as infertility.
Symptoms of gonorrhea in men
The main symptoms that may indicate gonorrhea in men are:
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Pain and burning when urinating
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Low-grade fever
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Inflammation of the urethra
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White-yellow discharge resembling pus that comes from the urethra
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Frequent urge to urinate
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Anal inflammation when unprotected anal intercourse has occurred
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Sore throat when oral sex has occurred
Based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms of gonorrhea typically appear within a few days after exposure, often between 2 and 10 days.
It is important to stay alert to these symptoms so treatment can be started promptly and the infection is not passed on to others.
Online symptom checker
To understand the possibility of having gonorrhea, please select the symptoms you are experiencing:
This test is only a guidance tool. It does not provide a diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with an infectious disease specialist, gynecologist, or urologist.
Confirming a diagnosis
The diagnosis of gonorrhea is made by a urologist based on the man’s symptoms and by analyzing the discharge coming from the urethra.
This discharge is sent to a laboratory to be processed and tested to identify the bacteria.
Treatment options
Treatment for gonorrhea in men should be prescribed by a urologist, and antibiotics are usually recommended. They must be taken exactly as instructed, even if symptoms disappear.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sexual partners should be treated at the same time to prevent reinfection and ongoing transmission.
A way to complement medical treatment may include certain home remedies that have antimicrobial properties and help relieve symptoms, although these should only be used with medical guidance.
Does gonorrhea in men have a cure?
Gonorrhea can be cured as long as antibiotic treatment is followed exactly as the doctor recommends.
Also recommended: How long does gonorrhea last? tuasaude.com/en/doctor-says/how-long-does-gonorrhea-lastCompleting the full course of treatment is essential, even when symptoms improve, to ensure the bacteria are eliminated, avoid antibiotic resistance, and reduce the risk of complications such as infertility.