How common is vaginal discharge in gonorrhoea?

A change in discharge can also come from chlamydia, trichomoniasis, bacterial imbalance, irritation, or another condition. Appearance alone cannot identify gonorrhoea. Testing may involve a vaginal or cervical sample and, depending on sexual contact, samples from other exposed sites.

Book a sexual-health assessment when discharge follows a possible exposure, a partner reports gonorrhoea, or symptoms such as burning urine or bleeding after sex appear. Do not have sex until you have received testing advice and completed any recommended treatment. Recent partners should be told through appropriate clinical guidance.

Seek prompt assessment for discharge with pelvic pain, fever, pain during sex, or feeling generally ill. Severe lower abdominal pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, or vomiting warrants urgent care. Early treatment helps prevent infection from extending into the upper reproductive tract.

Ask which body sites should be tested, whether testing for other sexually transmitted infections is suitable, when sex can safely resume, and how partners can access assessment. Tell the clinician about pregnancy or possible pregnancy before medication is prescribed.