Gonorrhoea symptoms: when they appear and how to get tested

4 days ago

3 min read

Gonorrhoea usually causes symptoms 2 to 7 days after infection (sometimes up to 2 weeks), mainly a burning feeling when peeing and discharge from the urethra or vagina. However, many people, especially women, and almost all throat or rectal infections, notice nothing at all. The only way to know is a PCR test on urine or a swab, which at Sermed Barcelona is done without an appointment, with same-day results if the sample is taken before 16:00.

What is gonorrhoea?

Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It spreads through vaginal, anal or oral sex without a condom and can affect the urethra, cervix, rectum, throat and, less often, the eyes. It is one of the most common bacterial STIs in Europe, and cases have also risen in Catalonia in recent years.

Gonorrhoea symptoms in men

Burning or pain when peeing.
Discharge from the penis, often yellowish or greenish.
Needing to pee more often.
Less often, pain or swelling in the testicles.

Gonorrhoea symptoms in women

In many women the infection causes no symptoms, or mild ones that are mistaken for a urinary infection or changes in discharge. The most common are:

Increased or changed vaginal discharge.
Burning when peeing.
Bleeding between periods or after sex.
Pain in the lower abdomen.

Gonorrhoea in the throat and rectum

After oral or anal sex the bacterium can settle in the throat or rectum. These sites rarely cause clear symptoms: at most a sore throat, anal itching or discharge. So if you have had oral or anal sex, mention it when you get tested so the right sample can be chosen.

Book a test · No appointment needed at C. del Dos de Maig, 283 (Eixample, Barcelona). Same-day results if the sample is taken before 16:00.

When should you get tested for gonorrhoea?

If you have symptoms: get tested as soon as possible, without waiting.
If you have no symptoms but had a risky encounter: as a rough guide, from 1–2 weeks after the contact.
If your partner has been diagnosed with gonorrhoea, even if you feel fine.
As a regular check-up if you have new or multiple partners.

If you test too early and the result is negative, the doctor may recommend repeating it later.

How it is detected: PCR test

Gonorrhoea is detected with a genetic amplification test (PCR) on a urine sample or a swab (genital, throat or rectal, depending on the case). At Sermed we use Real-Time PCR, a high-precision technique. Sample collection takes a few minutes and you receive your result online through a personal, secure link.

In our laboratory, gonorrhoea is included in:

ITS 7 (€120): the 7 most common bacterial infections, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, mycoplasmas, ureaplasmas and trichomonas.
Pack 1 – Basic STI (€160): all of the above plus HIV and hepatitis B and C.
ITS 14 (€200) and Pack 2 – Complete STI (€250): broader panels that also include herpes and syphilis, among others.

Because gonorrhoea and chlamydia often appear together, they are usually tested at the same time in one panel.

Can gonorrhoea be cured?

Yes. Gonorrhoea is cured with antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. Don't self-medicate: the bacterium has become resistant to several antibiotics and treatment must follow current guidelines. Also:

Your recent sexual partners should also get tested and treated.
Avoid sex until you finish treatment and as your doctor advises.
In some cases a repeat test after treatment is recommended.

Left untreated, gonorrhoea can cause complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, fertility problems or testicular inflammation.

Not sure which test you need? Message us on WhatsApp (+34 603 993 693) and we'll help.

Frequently asked questions

Can I have gonorrhoea without symptoms?

Yes. It is common, especially in women and in throat or rectal infections. It can be passed on even without symptoms.

How long does the result take?

At Sermed, if the sample is taken before 16:00, you get your result the same day.

Do condoms protect against gonorrhoea?

They greatly reduce the risk if used correctly throughout, including oral sex, but no method is 100% protective.

Do I need an appointment?

No. We see walk-in patients Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 20:00 and Saturdays from 10:00 to 18:00 at C. del Dos de Maig, 283 (Eixample, Barcelona). You can also book online if you prefer.