How to Recognize Symptoms of Gonorrhea
- 1). Be aware of the risk factors of gonorrhea. Being sexually active, having multiple sex partners and not using condoms can place a person at a greater risk of acquiring a sexually transmitted disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "the highest reported rates of infection are among sexually active teenagers, young adults and African Americans. Anyone who is sexually active should be tested for STDs on a regular basis.
- 2). Understand the symptoms of gonorrhea in men. Penile discharge---which may be yellow, green or white---and a painful or burning sensation while urinating are the two most common symptoms of this STD in men. Painful or swollen testicles are other possible symptoms that may accompany gonorrhea.
- 3). Know what the symptoms of gonorrhea are in women. Symptoms of gonorrhea are very similar to vaginal or bladder infections. A painful or burning sensation during urination, vaginal discharge that changes in texture or color, and bleeding in between menstrual periods are the most common symptoms of gonorrhea in women.
- 4). Realize that symptoms of gonorrhea are not always present. Many women who have this STD will not experience any symptoms. While it is more common for men to experience symptoms of gonorrhea, some men may be unaware that they have the disease. That is why it is so important to be tested regularly for STDs, regardless of symptoms.
- 5). Have an idea of how long it may take for gonorrhea to appear. According to the CDC, men may notice symptoms of this STD within two to five days after they have been infected, but others may not notice it until a month later. It is hard to say when gonorrhea symptoms will appear in women because they often do not appear or are mistaken for other gynecological problems.
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