Signs and Symptoms of Gonorrhea: An Overview
Signs and symptoms of
gonorrhea usually appear within 2 to 10 days after sexual contact with an infected partner. However, some people may be infected for several months without showing any indications of gonorrhea. The bacteria from gonorrhea are carried in semen and vaginal fluids, and can cause a discharge.
Signs and Symptoms of Gonorrhea in Women
Although most women with gonorrhea do not have any symptoms, women who do have signs and symptoms of gonorrhea will usually see them within 10 days of getting the sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Symptoms of gonorrhea in women may include:
- Pain or burning sensation when passing urine
- Vaginal discharge that is yellow or bloody
- Bleeding between menstrual periods
- Heavy bleeding with periods
- Pain during sex.
Any genital symptoms, such as discharge, burning during urination, or pain during sex, should be a signal to stop having sex and to see a doctor right away. Women with gonorrhea are at risk of developing serious complications from the infection, even if there are no symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms of Gonorrhea in Men
Although many men with gonorrhea may not have any symptoms, some men will have signs and symptoms of gonorrhea that appear 2 to 5 days after infection. In some cases, symptoms can take as long as 30 days to appear.
Symptoms of gonorrhea in men can include:
- A burning sensation when urinating
- A white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis
- Painful or swollen testicles.