Sexual health & STIs
Gonorrhoea Symptoms in Men: Signs, Risks and Treatment
Gonorrhoea in men often causes burning and a yellow or green discharge. Learn the symptoms, risks of leaving it untreated, testing and prevention.
In short: Gonorrhoea symptoms in men usually include burning when urinating and a thick yellow, white or green discharge from the penis. Some men have no symptoms. Gonorrhoea needs prompt testing and prescribed antibiotics, and growing antibiotic resistance makes proper treatment essential.
What is gonorrhoea?
Gonorrhoea (sometimes called “the drop”) is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection. It spreads through vaginal, anal and oral sex, and can infect the urethra, rectum, throat and eyes.
Symptoms in men
Symptoms usually appear within two to fourteen days, although some men have none:
- Burning or pain when passing urine
- Thick yellow, white or green discharge from the penis
- Swelling or redness at the tip of the penis
- Pain or swelling in the testicles
- Rectal discomfort, discharge or bleeding (after anal sex)
- Sore throat (after oral sex)
Risks of untreated gonorrhoea
- Epididymitis, painful swelling behind the testicle, which may affect fertility
- Spread to the blood and joints (rare but serious)
- Higher risk of acquiring and passing on HIV
- Passing the infection to partners
Testing
A urine test or swab at a clinic or sexual health service can confirm gonorrhoea. Testing for chlamydia, HIV and syphilis is often done at the same time. Public clinics in South Africa offer confidential STI services.
Treatment and antibiotic resistance
Gonorrhoea is treated with antibiotics prescribed by an appropriately registered medical professional. Some strains have become resistant to common antibiotics, which is why:
- You should never self-treat with leftover or street-bought antibiotics
- You must complete the full treatment
- A follow-up test may be advised
- Partners must be tested and treated
- Avoid sex until treatment is complete
Prevention
- Use condoms for vaginal, anal and oral sex
- Test regularly if you have new or multiple partners
- Talk with partners about testing
Similar infections
Chlamydia often causes similar symptoms and the two can occur together. See chlamydia symptoms in men. For other causes of discharge or burning, read STI symptoms in men and UTI in men.
After treatment
Some men feel anxious about sex after an STI. That’s normal. Open conversations with partners and regular testing help rebuild confidence. See how to improve intimacy in a relationship.
How we can help
Testing and antibiotics must come from an appropriately registered medical professional or clinic. Our naturopath in Sandton can support your wider sexual wellbeing once you have been treated.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Do you have pain, swelling, redness or itching in the genital area?
- Have you noticed discharge, sores, a lump or blood in your urine or semen?
- Do you have a fever or feel generally unwell?
- Has this lasted more than a few days, or keep coming back?
- Is it affecting your sex life, sleep or confidence?
A yes to questions two or three, or sudden severe pain, means you should see an appropriately registered medical professional promptly. For recurring or lifestyle-related concerns, a naturopath can help with natural support alongside medical care.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our mens clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of gonorrhoea in men?
Burning when urinating and a thick yellow, white or green discharge from the penis.
Can gonorrhoea go away on its own?
No. Gonorrhoea needs prescribed antibiotics and should not be left untreated.
How soon do gonorrhoea symptoms appear?
Usually within two to fourteen days, although some men have no symptoms.
Is gonorrhoea becoming resistant to antibiotics?
Yes. That is why proper testing, prescribed treatment and follow-up are important.
Should my partner be treated for gonorrhoea?
Yes. Partners should be tested and treated to prevent reinfection.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Walk in at our Sandton practice any time, day or night, or book ahead. Outside Gauteng? Book a remote consultation.
References and further reading
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
