STIS and HIV

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a bacterium that can grow and multiply easily in mucous membranes of the body. Gonorrhea bacteria can grow in the warm, moist areas of the reproductive tract, including the cervix (opening to the womb), uterus (womb), and fallopian tubes (egg canals) and in the urethra (urine canal). The bacteria can also grow in the mouth, throat, and anus.

How Can it be Prevented?

Practice safer sex by using condoms correctly every time you have sex.

What are the Symptoms?

Symptoms and signs include a burning sensation when urinating and a yellowish white discharge from the penis. Sometimes testicles can become painful and swollen. Others have no symptoms of infection.

Sometimes symptoms can be so non-specific they are mistaken for a bladder or vaginal infection. The initial symptoms and signs can include a painful or burning sensation when urinating, yellow vaginal discharge and spotting. Untreated gonorrhea can develop into pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

Symptoms of rectal infection include discharge, anal itching, soreness, bleeding, and sometimes painful bowel movements. Infections in the throat cause few symptoms.

How Do You Treat It?

Gonorrhea is easily treated and cured with antibiotics. Most often just one dose is required. All sex partners should also be treated. Don’t have sex for 7 days after treatment to prevent spreading the infection.