Gonorrhoea
What is gonorrhoea?
Gonorrhoea is another common sexually transmitted disease (STD) amongst sexually active young people. It is a bacterial infection spread through vagina, oral, and anal intercourse. It can also be spread from an infected pregnant mother to the baby during childbirth. If left untreated, gonorrhoea may lead to serious consequences such as joint pain, rashes, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
What are the symptoms of gonorrhoea?
Symptoms for women may include:
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Foul-smelling, bloody, or purulent vaginal discharge
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Pelvic or abdominal pain
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Painful urination
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Painful sex
Most men do not present with any symptoms, but may experience the following:
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Abnormal penile discharge
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Painful urination
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Painful and swollen testicles (epididymitis)
Patients may also experience flu-like symptoms. If gonorrhoea is spread through anal sex, symptoms may include pain when passing motion, or bleeding and/or discharge from the anus. Gonorrhoea may also be spread through oral sex, which may lead to sore throat-like symptoms.
If you experience any of the above symptoms or are unsure, please consult a doctor. He/she/they will be able to guide you, obtain some samples for testing, and recommend the right management for you.
Is gonorrhoea curable? What is the treatment for gonorrhoea?
Gonorrhoea is curable. Treatment involves a course of antibiotics. During this period, please refrain from having sex until you complete the antibiotics.
Should I screen for gonorrhoea even if I do not have any symptoms?
Yes, sexually active women should be tested annually for gonorrhoea.
For more information, please visit: https://www.cdc.gov/std/gonorrhea/stdfact-gonorrhea.htm