Gonorrhea

Gonorrhoea

Not everyone infected with gonorrhoea experiences symptoms, especially in the early stages of the infection. However, when symptoms do occur, they typically appear within 1 to 14 days after exposure. Common signs and symptoms of gonorrhoea include:

• Painful or burning sensation during urination

• Increased frequency of urination

• Abnormal vaginal discharge (yellowish or bloody)

• Vaginal bleeding between periods

• Painful sexual intercourse

• Abdominal or pelvic pain

It is important to note that gonorrhoea can also infect the rectum, throat, and eyes, leading to symptoms such as anal itching, sore throat, or conjunctivitis (pink eye).

Symptoms

Causes

Treatment

• Additional considerations for gonorrhoea treatment include:

  • Partner notification and testing:

    • Sexual partners who may have been exposed to gonorrhoea should be notified so that they can seek testing and treatment.

  • Retesting:

    • Follow-up testing after treatment is recommended to ensure that the infection has been successfully cleared.

  • Dual therapy for coinfection:

    • Given the potential for coinfection with other STIs, such as chlamydia, healthcare providers may prescribe dual therapy with antibiotics to cover both infections.

  • Safe sexual practices including:

    • Consistent and correct condom use

    • Regular STI testing

It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and guidance on preventing the spread of gonorrhoea.

Gonorrhoea is primarily spread through sexual contact with an infected person. It can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. The bacteria can infect the genitals, rectum, and throat, as well as be passed from a mother to new-born during childbirth.

Factors that increase the risk of contracting gonorrhoea include:

• Having multiple sexual partners

• Engaging in unprotected sex

• Having a history of previous STIs

Gonorrhoea can affect everyone and can be transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It can cause a range of symptoms and can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

BY: VAGINAL HEALTH

UPDATED: 13/10/2023

Gonorrhoea, also known as "the clap," is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing gonorrhoea and preventing complications. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to kill the bacteria. However, due to the increasing prevalence of drug-resistant strains of gonorrhoea, treatment options may vary. The healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate antibiotics based on factors such as local antibiotic resistance patterns. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.

Safe Sex . Sexually Transmitted Infections