Red flags & when to go in person for Gonorrhea (Suspected) - Testing & Treatment Pathway

Audience: pediatric

Gonorrhea is a common bacterial infection that can affect children and teens, especially those who are sexually active. It often causes symptoms like pain when urinating, unusual discharge, or discomfort in the genital area. Early testing and treatment are important to prevent complications. Telemedicine can help provide education, discuss symptoms, and guide testing options. However, some signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person right away. These include severe pain, fever, or signs of spreading infection. This guide explains when telemedicine is helpful and when in-person care is necessary. It also lists warning signs to watch for and what to expect during and after a telemedicine visit. Remember, this information is for education and should not replace professional medical care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever or chills indicating possible severe infection — seek urgent in-person care.
• Severe lower abdominal or genital pain that worsens quickly — go to a healthcare facility immediately.
• Difficulty or inability to urinate, which may signal blockage or severe infection — get emergency evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and risks related to suspected gonorrhea.
• Providing education on infection prevention and testing procedures.
• Reviewing test results and advising on treatment adherence.
• Guiding when and where to get in-person testing or care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examination or specimen collection.
• Diagnosing complications like pelvic inflammatory disease or abscesses.
• Managing severe symptoms such as high fever or intense pain.
• Providing emergency care for urgent complications.

What is Gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is an infection caused by bacteria that can affect the genitals, rectum, and throat. It spreads mainly through sexual contact. In children and teens, it may cause symptoms like burning during urination, unusual discharge, or pain. Some may have no symptoms but can still pass the infection to others.

When to Use Telemedicine for Gonorrhea Concerns

Telemedicine can help you talk to a healthcare provider about symptoms, risks, and testing options. It is useful for education, discussing test results, and getting advice on prevention. Providers can guide you on how and where to get tested safely.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Certain signs mean your child should see a healthcare provider in person promptly:

If any of these occur, seek urgent medical care.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before the visit, gather information about symptoms, any recent sexual activity, and questions you have. Find a private, quiet place for the call. Have a list of current medications and any allergies ready. Make sure your device is charged and connected to the internet.

What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit

Your provider may recommend testing at a local clinic or lab. Follow instructions carefully for sample collection. If treatment is needed, they may prescribe antibiotics and explain how to take them. It is important to complete the full course. Avoid sexual contact until treatment is finished and your provider says it is safe.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a private, quiet space for your telemedicine visit.
• Have a list of symptoms and their duration ready to discuss.
• Gather information about recent sexual activity and partners if comfortable sharing.
• Prepare a list of current medications and allergies.
• Ensure your device is charged and has a stable internet connection.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to address.

After your tele-visit

• Follow provider instructions for any recommended testing at a clinic or lab.
• Complete the full course of prescribed antibiotics if treatment is given.
• Avoid sexual contact until treatment is complete and provider confirms safety.
• Monitor symptoms and report any worsening or new red flags immediately.
• Attend any recommended follow-up appointments or tests.

FAQs

Can gonorrhea be treated through telemedicine?

Telemedicine can help you get advice and prescriptions for gonorrhea treatment, but testing usually needs to be done in person. Your provider can guide you to safe places for testing and prescribe antibiotics if needed.

What if my child has no symptoms but was exposed to gonorrhea?

Even without symptoms, testing is important if exposure is suspected. Your provider can discuss testing options and timing through telemedicine and recommend follow-up care.

How soon should treatment start after diagnosis?

Treatment typically starts as soon as gonorrhea is diagnosed to prevent complications. Your healthcare provider will advise on the best timing and medication through telemedicine or in-person care.

Can untreated gonorrhea cause serious problems?

Yes, untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious health issues like pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and increased risk of other infections. Early diagnosis and treatment are important.

Is it safe to have a telemedicine visit for gonorrhea concerns?

Yes, telemedicine is a safe way to discuss symptoms, get education, and plan testing or treatment. However, some symptoms require in-person evaluation, so follow your provider's advice.

Sources

1. Gonorrhea — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Gonorrhea - MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia — U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) — World Health Organization (WHO).
4. Gonorrhea: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you or your child experience any serious symptoms or red flags, seek immediate medical attention.