Symptoms of gonorrhoea and syphilis

Gonorrhoea may present with burning when urinating, genital discharge, pelvic discomfort, or rectal or throat symptoms, depending on the site of infection. Syphilis can begin with a painless sore and later cause a rash, swollen glands, fever, or tiredness; symptoms may fade while infection remains. These infections can overlap, and symptoms alone cannot identify which one is present. Untreated infection can cause complications, including pelvic inflammatory disease. A recent sexual partner may have no symptoms and still need testing.

Arrange confidential STI screening if you have symptoms, a new diagnosis in a partner, or sex without a barrier. Avoid sex until a clinician has assessed you and explained when it is safe to resume; partners may need testing and treatment. Do not share antibiotics or use leftover medicine, because the correct drug depends on the infection and site. Tell the clinician about oral or anal sex so the right samples are considered. Treatment is available, but follow-up matters.

Seek prompt care for pelvic or testicular pain, fever, a spreading rash, eye pain or vision change, severe headache, weakness, or pregnancy with possible exposure. Urgent assessment is needed for severe pelvic pain, fainting, or feeling acutely unwell. Ask about antibiotic treatment and partner notification after results. Avoid sex until advised, even if symptoms improve.

Ask which samples and blood tests are needed, whether other STIs should be checked, when treatment starts, and how partners will be contacted. Mention pregnancy, allergies, recent antibiotics, exposed sites, and the date of possible contact.