What is gonorrhea?
Gonorrhea (Neisseria gonorrhoeae) is a bacterial STI affecting the urethra, cervix, rectum, throat, or eyes. About 700,000 cases annually in the US. Many asymptomatic, especially in women.
Untreated, can cause PID, infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and rarely disseminated gonococcal infection. Treatment requires injectable ceftriaxone (in-office) plus oral doxycycline due to rising antibiotic resistance.
Do I have gonorrhea? Common signs
If most of these describe what you're experiencing, telehealth may be a good next step:
What causes it
Sexually transmitted bacterial infection. Vaginal, anal, oral sex.
Is it contagious?
Yes — STI.
Dual therapy is now standard because of rising ceftriaxone resistance — ceftriaxone alone is no longer adequate in many cases.
Can it be treated online?
Testing and follow-up can be done by telehealth. Ceftriaxone injection is given in-office. Severe PID, epididymitis with systemic symptoms, or disseminated infection need in-person care.
How gonorrhea is treated
Ceftriaxone 500mg IM single dose (in office) plus doxycycline 100mg twice daily for 7 days if chlamydia coinfection. Treat sexual partners. Re-test in 3 months. Avoid sex for 7 days after treatment.
Self-care while you wait
- Get treated promptly
- Notify all recent partners
- Use condoms
- Re-test in 3 months
- Test for other STIs simultaneously (HIV, syphilis, chlamydia)
- Avoid sex for 7 days after treatment
How long does it last?
Treated cases resolve in days. Untreated can cause long-term reproductive and joint damage.
Frequently asked questions
Why an injection?
Oral antibiotics are no longer reliable due to resistance. Ceftriaxone IM ensures adequate dose.
Will partners need treatment?
Yes — all recent sexual partners (60 days). Expedited partner therapy may be available.
Can I get reinfected?
Yes — immunity doesn't develop. Re-testing important.
Is it linked to infertility?
Untreated, yes — PID and tubal damage. Treated promptly, no long-term effects expected.
Can I get gonorrhea in my throat?
Yes — pharyngeal gonorrhea is increasing, often asymptomatic.
