Like many STDs and STIs, gonorrhea often doesn’t have any clear signs or symptoms. Those that do show up are often mistaken for other infections. However, while some people do not have any visible signs or symptoms, some do.
Both males and females may experience rectal infections with symptoms that may include itching, bleeding or soreness around the anus, discharge from the rectum, rectal bleeding and painful bowel movements.
Male symptoms
- Burning during urination (as early as 2-5 days after infection, sometimes as long as 30 days after infection.)
- Swollen or painful testicles
- White, yellow or green discharge from the tip of the penis
Female symptoms
- Burning sensation or pain during urination
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Bleeding between periods.
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HIV ALERT – people with Gonorrhea and Chlamydia are more susceptible to contracting HIV and are more infectious if they already have HIV.
Mothers and babies with Gonorrhea
Pregnant women infected with gonorrhea may pass the infection on to their babies during normal vaginal delivery. Gonorrhea can cause blindness, joint diseases or a life threatening blood infection in babies. Early detection can give babies and mothers the best chance for treatment options and can protect babies from contracting the infection.
