Understanding Gonorrhea: Symptoms, Transmission, and Treatment

What is Gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It affects both men and women, often infecting the genital tract, rectum, and throat. If left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to serious health complications, including infertility and increased susceptibility to HIV.

Symptoms of Gonorrhea

Symptoms of gonorrhea can vary between individuals, and some people may not experience any symptoms at all. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

• In Men:

  • Painful urination

  • Discharge from the penis (often yellow or green)

  • Swollen or painful testicles

• In Women:

  • Painful urination

  • Increased vaginal discharge

  • Pelvic pain or discomfort

  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding (between periods)

Gonorrhea can also infect the throat (causing a sore throat), rectum (leading to discomfort, discharge, or itching), and eyes (conjunctivitis).

Transmission of Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is primarily spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It can also be transmitted from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth, which may lead to complications like blindness in the newborn.

Diagnosis and Testing

Gonorrhea can be diagnosed through laboratory tests, including urine tests or swabbing of the affected area. It’s important to get tested regularly if you are sexually active, especially if you have multiple partners or engage in unprotected sex.

Treatment for Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is treatable with antibiotics. The current recommended treatment is a dual therapy consisting of an injection of ceftriaxone and an oral dose of azithromycin. However, due to rising antibiotic resistance, it’s important to complete the full course of treatment and follow up with testing to ensure the infection is fully cleared.

Complications of Untreated Gonorrhea

If left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to serious health issues, such as:

• In Women: Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), which can cause infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and ectopic pregnancy.

• In Men: Epididymitis, a painful condition of the testicles that can also lead to infertility.

• In Both: Gonorrhea increases the risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV.

Prevention of Gonorrhea

The best way to prevent gonorrhea is through practicing safe sex. This includes:

• Using condoms during vaginal, anal, and oral sex

• Limiting the number of sexual partners

• Getting regular STI screenings, especially if sexually active with multiple partners

Gonorrhea is a treatable STI, but it’s essential to get tested and seek medical care promptly to avoid complications. Using protection during sex and having open conversations with sexual partners about STI prevention are important steps in reducing the spread of gonorrhea. Early detection and treatment are key to maintaining good sexual health.