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

Audience: pediatric

If you or your child might have gonorrhea, preparing for a video visit can help you get the best care. Gonorrhea is a common infection that spreads through sexual contact. During the video visit, a healthcare provider will ask about symptoms, sexual history, and may recommend testing. Testing usually involves samples from urine or swabs from affected areas. Treatment often includes antibiotics. It is important to follow the provider's advice and complete any prescribed medication. The video visit can help start care quickly and safely from home. However, some symptoms may require in-person care. Knowing what to expect and having information ready can make the visit easier and more effective.

Red flags — go in person / ER

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

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and sexual history confidentially.
• Providing guidance on sample collection for testing.
• Prescribing antibiotics for uncomplicated gonorrhea cases.
• Answering questions about prevention and treatment.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations requiring hands-on assessment.
• Managing severe symptoms or complications needing urgent care.
• Providing emergency treatment for severe infections.
• Conducting laboratory testing directly (samples must be collected locally).

What is Gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a common infection caused by bacteria. It spreads mostly through sexual contact. It can affect the genitals, rectum, and throat. Sometimes, people with gonorrhea have no symptoms, especially children and teens. When symptoms do appear, they may include pain when urinating, unusual discharge, or sore throat.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, find a quiet, private space with good internet connection. Have a list of symptoms ready, including when they started. Be ready to discuss any recent sexual activity or possible exposures. Keep a list of current medicines and allergies nearby. If possible, have a trusted adult with you for support during the visit.

What to Expect During the Visit

The healthcare provider will ask questions about symptoms and sexual history. They may guide you on how to collect samples for testing, such as urine or swabs. The provider will explain possible treatment options and answer your questions. They may also discuss ways to prevent future infections.

Testing and Treatment

Testing for gonorrhea often requires samples from urine or swabs from the throat, rectum, or genitals. These samples are sent to a lab for analysis. If the test is positive, treatment usually involves antibiotics. It is important to take all medication as prescribed, even if symptoms improve quickly.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If you experience severe pain, high fever, swelling, or bleeding, you should seek in-person medical care immediately. These could be signs of complications that need urgent attention. Also, if symptoms worsen or do not improve after treatment, follow up with a healthcare provider.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a private, quiet space with good internet for the video visit.
• Prepare a list of symptoms and when they started.
• Have information about recent sexual activity or possible exposures ready.
• List current medications and any allergies.
• Consider having a trusted adult present for support if needed.
• Ensure your device is charged and camera/microphone work properly.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions carefully, including taking all prescribed medication.
• Complete any recommended testing and share results if needed.
• Avoid sexual activity until treatment is complete and provider confirms it is safe.
• Monitor symptoms and report any worsening or new symptoms promptly.
• Attend any follow-up appointments as advised.
• Practice safe sex to reduce risk of future infections.

FAQs

Can gonorrhea be cured with antibiotics?

Yes, gonorrhea is typically treated with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. It is important to take the full course of medication even if symptoms improve before finishing the treatment.

How is gonorrhea tested during a video visit?

During the video visit, the provider may guide you on how to collect urine or swab samples at home or direct you to a nearby clinic or lab for sample collection. These samples are then tested in a laboratory.

Is it safe to have a video visit about sexual health?

Yes, video visits are confidential and can be a safe way to discuss sensitive topics like sexual health from the privacy of your home. Healthcare providers follow privacy laws to protect your information.

What should I do if my symptoms get worse after treatment?

If symptoms worsen or do not improve after treatment, contact your healthcare provider promptly. You may need further evaluation or a different treatment.

Can gonorrhea spread to others even if there are no symptoms?

Yes, gonorrhea can be spread even when no symptoms are present. This is why testing and treatment are important if exposure is suspected.

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 — Mayo Clinic.
4. Gonorrhea - Merck Manuals Consumer Version — Merck & Co., Inc..

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