Seeking Guidance on Persistent Urethral Symptoms
Greetings to all the medical professionals and community members, I am a 24-year-old male, and I’m reaching out for some advice regarding a troubling situation. Towards the end of July, my girlfriend began experiencing discomfort in her intimate area, prompting me to encourage her to visit a clinic. Upon her examination, she was informed that she likely had a sexually transmitted infection (STI), yet no testing was conducted; the diagnosis was solely based on observed symptoms. Concerned, I performed a self-examination and noticed something unusual at the opening of my urethra—it appeared white, resembling a wound, although I didn’t experience any pain or discomfort. Consequently, I visited my general practitioner and relayed my girlfriend’s diagnosis to him. He conducted a visual assessment of my penis and the urethral issue and concluded that I, too, had an STI, without conducting any tests. He prescribed me a week's course of ceftriaxone, Flagyl, and doxycycline. After completing this treatment, the symptom in my urethra resolved. Approximately four weeks later, after having unprotected intercourse with my girlfriend, I observed the white lesion reappearing on my urethra. Seeking clarity, I consulted a different doctor who performed comprehensive blood tests and a urinalysis, revealing that I tested positive for Mycoplasma genitalium. The new doctor then prescribed me another round of ceftriaxone, Flagyl, and added moxifloxacin, which I was to take once daily for five days, with instructions to return in a week if there were no improvements. I went back after a week, as there had been no noticeable changes, and the doctor renewed my prescriptions for ceftriaxone and Flagyl, along with a course of doxycycline to be taken twice daily for the next seven days. I have just completed the doxycycline course, but unfortunately, I see no improvement in my condition. I am reaching out for your expertise and any advice you may have regarding my situation. Thank you for your assistance!
Answers (1)
9/10/2025, 2:01:16 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your detailed experience; I can imagine how concerning this situation must be for you. There are a few key points about your symptoms and ongoing treatments that we can address.
Main Points:
- Your recurring urethral symptoms may be linked to Mycoplasma genitalium or another infection.
- Given the lack of improvement after multiple courses of antibiotics, further testing and adjustments to your treatment plan may be necessary.
Explanation:
Mycoplasma genitalium is a type of bacteria that can cause infections in the genital tract, and treating it can sometimes be challenging. Antibiotics like doxycycline, ceftriaxone, and moxifloxacin are typically effective, but if symptoms persist despite treatment, it may suggest antibiotic resistance or another underlying issue.
Next Steps:
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Follow-Up Testing: Return to your healthcare provider for further testing if you haven’t already done so. This may include:
- A test to determine antibiotic sensitivity, which can identify the most effective treatment options.
- Testing for other STIs to rule out any additional infections that could be causing your symptoms.
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Avoid Unprotected Intercourse: Until your symptoms are completely resolved and you have clear guidance from a healthcare provider, avoid unprotected intercourse to prevent potential reinfection.
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Symptom Diary: Keep a record of your symptoms, noting any changes in appearance, discomfort, or other related issues. This information can help your healthcare provider make more informed decisions.
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Consider Partner Treatment: It’s essential that your girlfriend also gets treated and tested for STIs to avoid reinfection. Encourage her to follow up with a healthcare provider to ensure she receives proper care.
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Support and Reassurance: Don’t hesitate to reach out for emotional support from friends, family, or counseling if you feel stressed by this situation. Managing your mental and emotional well-being is just as important as your physical health.
Please keep in close communication with your healthcare provider regarding your symptoms and any new developments. They will be your best resource for personalized care moving forward. If you feel your concerns are not being adequately addressed, seeking a second opinion might be beneficial as well.
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