How to prepare for a video visit about Gonorrhea (Suspected) - Testing & Treatment Pathway

Audience: adult

If you suspect you have gonorrhea, preparing for a video visit can help you get the most from your appointment. Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection that often requires testing and treatment. During the video visit, a healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, sexual history, and may recommend testing. Testing usually involves providing urine samples or swabs from affected areas. Treatment typically includes antibiotics. Preparing ahead by gathering your medical history, symptoms, and any questions can make the visit smoother. Remember, telemedicine can help with education, testing guidance, and treatment plans, but some situations may require in-person care. If you experience severe symptoms or complications, seek urgent medical attention.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe pelvic or abdominal pain — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with chills — contact healthcare urgently.
• Heavy vaginal or penile bleeding or discharge with a foul smell — get prompt medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and sexual history confidentially.
• Providing education about gonorrhea and prevention.
• Guiding you on how and where to get testing done.
• Prescribing antibiotics if appropriate and safe.
• Offering follow-up advice and answering questions.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations or procedures.
• Administering tests or treatments directly.
• Managing severe complications or emergencies.
• Providing care if allergic reactions or adverse effects occur.

What to Expect During Your Video Visit

During your video visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, sexual activity, and any previous infections. They may discuss testing options, which often include urine tests or swabs from the throat, rectum, or genitals. Based on your information, they may prescribe antibiotics if gonorrhea is suspected. The provider will also advise on notifying recent sexual partners and prevention strategies.

How to Prepare for the Video Visit

Before your appointment, find a private, quiet space with a reliable internet connection. Have your identification and any previous medical records ready. Write down your symptoms, when they started, and any questions you have. Be ready to discuss your sexual history honestly to help the provider assess your risk and recommend appropriate testing.

Understanding Testing and Treatment

Testing for gonorrhea usually involves providing a urine sample or swabs from affected areas. Results may take a few days. Treatment typically includes antibiotics that you may receive as a prescription during or after your visit. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve. Avoid sexual contact until treatment is complete and your provider confirms it is safe.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If you have severe pain, high fever, heavy bleeding, or signs of spreading infection like joint pain or swelling, seek urgent in-person medical care. Also, if you are pregnant, have allergies to antibiotics, or your symptoms worsen despite treatment, an in-person evaluation is important.

Preventing Gonorrhea and Future Infections

Using condoms consistently and correctly reduces the risk of gonorrhea. Regular screening is recommended if you have multiple partners or engage in high-risk activities. Informing sexual partners about your infection helps prevent spread and reinfection. Discuss vaccination and other prevention options with your healthcare provider.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a private, quiet place with good internet connection.
• Have your ID and any previous medical records ready.
• Write down your symptoms and when they started.
• List any medications or allergies you have.
• Prepare questions about testing, treatment, and prevention.
• Ensure you can provide samples if directed to local testing centers.

After your tele-visit

• Complete the full course of prescribed antibiotics.
• Avoid sexual activity until treatment is finished and cleared by your provider.
• Notify recent sexual partners so they can get tested and treated.
• Monitor your symptoms and report any worsening or new issues.
• Schedule follow-up if recommended by your healthcare provider.
• Practice safer sex to reduce future risk.

FAQs

Can gonorrhea be cured with antibiotics?

Yes, gonorrhea is typically treated and cured with prescribed antibiotics. It is important to complete the entire course even if symptoms improve early.

How soon after treatment can I have sex again?

You should avoid sexual contact until you have completed treatment and your healthcare provider confirms the infection is cleared, usually after about 7 days.

What if I test positive for gonorrhea but have no symptoms?

Many people with gonorrhea have no symptoms but can still spread the infection. Treatment is important even if you feel well.

Can I get tested for gonorrhea at home?

Some places offer home testing kits, but you should discuss with your provider the best testing options available in your area.

What if my symptoms don't improve after treatment?

If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider promptly for further evaluation and care.

Sources

1. Gonorrhea - MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines, 2021 — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Gonorrhea — Mayo Clinic.
4. Gonorrhea — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or urgent concerns, please seek immediate medical attention.