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Question:
I am a 17 year old male. This is a little uncomfortable to talk about, but I have recently been exhibiting traits charicteristic to certain STD's. I became quite frightened and started looking for help on the internet, where I found that Gonnorrea seemed to be the closest description to what I have. (symptoms are yellow penile discharge, burning urination) But one problem remains, I have had no way of contracting the disease. My girlfriend and I have never had full on sexual intercourse (we have come close, but have always used condoms)... There was only one time when we didn't use protection, but I never really entered her. And this was several months ago, symptoms are supposed to appear within approxamately 2 weeks. I would greatly appreciate some information. The symptoms are, needless to say, frustrating and embarrasing.

Answer:
by Larry Siegel:
()
Thanks for writing in and I understand your concern. Unfortunately, the only real course of action for you is to see a doctor or clinic to get tested for what you might have. That's the only way to know what is going on and receive appropriate treatment. Although you say your symptoms best describe gonnorhea, it is also possible that it could be chlamydia. The symptoms of chlamydia, when present, are very much like those of gonnorhea only less severe (burning might be less but there is still discharge). It's also possible that it could be a urethral infection that may not have anything to do with an STI. Each possibility requires different treatment/medications. One size does NOT fit all! Please understand that it is impossible for a diagnosis or recommendation to be made over the computer. You really need to find a doctor or clinic that you can trust and have yourself tested. It may be as simple as taking a swab of the discharge. But that's what you need to do. If it is something that requires treatment, your girlfriend may need to get tested as well. There are things that can develop that are not STIs, but they can still be passed on sexually. I would suggest not waiting too long, even if the symptoms start to go away. I wish you the best and hope all goes well for you. Take care and good luck. Larry Siegel

Reviewed by: Patricia Fawver Ph.D. in Sexology

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