• increased urinary frequency or urgency
• incontinence
• urethral discharge
• pain on urination
• red or swollen opening of penis (urethra)
• tender testicles

An preliminary diagnosis of gonorrhea can be made at the time of examination. A smear of urethral discharge may be taken, stained and examined under the microscope. Neisseria gonorrhoeae organisms appear within the cells present in the discharge.

Cultures provide absolute proof of infection. Neisseria gonorrhoeae organisms may grow on any of the mucus membranes. Culture sites are determined depending the person's gender, sexual preference and sexual practices. Generally, cultures are obtain from the urethra, anus or throat. Laboratories can give a preliminary diagnosis often within 24 hours and a confirmed diagnosis within 72 hours.

Tests include:

• gram stain of urethral discharge
• urethral discharge culture for gonorrhea
• rectal culture
• throat culture