Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae and can infect both men and women.

In men, the symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions, which is why it is important to be aware of the signs of gonorrhea. In this comprehensive guide, we cover everything you need to know about gonorrhea symptoms in men.

What is Gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection that is transmitted through sexual contact. It can affect the genitals, rectum, and throat.

Gonorrhea is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the world, and it is particularly prevalent in young adults.

How is Gonorrhea Transmitted?

Gonorrhea is transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It can also be spread from mother to baby during childbirth.

People who have unprotected sex, have multiple sexual partners, or engage in high-risk sexual behaviors are at a higher risk of contracting gonorrhea.

What are the Symptoms of Gonorrhea in Men?

Gonorrhea symptoms in men can vary and may not always be present. Some men may not experience any symptoms at all, which is why it is important to get tested regularly if you are sexually active or if you have had unprotected sex.

The symptoms of gonorrhea in men can include:.

Pain or burning sensation when urinating
White, yellow, or green discharge from the penis
Pain, tenderness, or swelling in the testicles
Anal itching, discharge, or bleeding
Sore throat, if the infection is in the throat
Redness or swelling at the opening of the penis
Eye infection, if the infection spreads to the eyes

How is Gonorrhea Diagnosed in Men?

Gonorrhea is diagnosed through a urine test or a swab test. The urine test involves collecting a sample of urine and testing it for the presence of the gonorrhea bacterium.

The swab test involves taking a sample of fluid from the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body) or from other infected areas, such as the rectum or throat.

How is Gonorrhea Treated?

Gonorrhea is treated with antibiotics, which can be given as an injection or taken orally. It is important to finish the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if your symptoms go away.

This will ensure that the infection is completely eradicated from your body.

You should also abstain from sexual activity until you have completed your course of antibiotics and your healthcare provider has confirmed that the infection is gone.

This will help prevent the spread of the infection to others and reduce the risk of reinfection.

What Happens if Gonorrhea is Left Untreated?

If gonorrhea is left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, such as:.

Infertility in men
Prostate gland infection
Epididymitis (infection of the tube that carries sperm from the testicles)
Urethral stricture (narrowing of the urethra)
Increased risk of HIV infection

How can Gonorrhea be Prevented in Men?

The best way to prevent gonorrhea is to practice safe sex. This means using a condom or other barrier method every time you have sex, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

You should also limit your number of sexual partners and get tested regularly for STIs if you are sexually active.

If you are in a monogamous relationship, it is still important to get tested regularly for STIs, as many people with STIs may not experience any symptoms.

Conclusion

Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection that can have serious health consequences if left untreated.

The symptoms of gonorrhea in men can vary and may not always be present, so it is important to get tested regularly if you are sexually active or if you have had unprotected sex. If you do test positive for gonorrhea, it can be easily treated with antibiotics, but it is important to finish the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed by your healthcare provider to ensure that the infection is completely eradicated.

To prevent gonorrhea, practice safe sex and limit your number of sexual partners.