Symptoms of Gonorrhea in Women

Overview of Symptoms of Gonorrhea in Women

Symptoms of gonorrhea in women can vary by individual. Symptoms may range from mild to severe, or in many cases, symptoms are non-existent. However, when present, gonorrhea symptoms are sometimes mistaken for other less serious conditions such as a vaginal yeast infection. Here’s a list of potential symptoms of gonorrhea in women:

• Abnormal vaginal discharge. This discharge is often yellow, heavier or thicker than normal.
• Painful urination.
• Lower abdominal pain.
• Lower back pain.
• Bleeding in between menstrual periods.

Possible Causes of Symptoms of Gonorrhea in Women

Other diseases and conditions can cause side effects that mimic symptoms of gonorrhea in women including the following:

• Other sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia or trichomoniasis
• Vaginal yeast infection
• Bacterial vaginosis or vaginitis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease, a complication of gonorrhea or other STDs.
• Cervicitis, a complication of gonorrhea or other STDs.

Diagnosing Symptoms of Gonorrhea in Women

STD testing is critical when a woman is experiencing possible gonorrhea symptoms. When possible STD symptoms are present, get tested for gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis as soon as possible. Untreated STDs can lead to irreversible complications including infertility.

Also, since symptoms of gonorrhea in women are similar to yeast infections and other benign conditions, an accurate diagnosis is not possible through the evaluation of symptoms. STD testing must be administered for a proper diagnosis.

A gonorrhea test and other STD testing is available at local labs or even through at-home STD testing kits. STD tests are performed through a painless, non-invasive urine screen.

If you are not at risk for STDs, a vaginal yeast infection or bacterial infection may be causing symptoms. A doctor can perform additional testing to determine the cause.

Treating Symptoms of Gonorrhea in Women

Symptoms of gonorrhea in women are treated with the antibiotic doxycycline. If caused by other STDs, treatment will vary. Be sure to avoid any sexual contact until gonorrhea treatment if fully completed.

Vaginal yeast infections, which are often confused for symptoms of gonorrhea in women (and vice versa), are treated through over-the-counter or prescription medications. Bacterial infections require prescription medication.