What is Gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It is sometimes referred to as “the clap” or “the drip”. While it is most commonly spread through sexual contact, it can also be spread from mother to baby during childbirth or from a blood transfusion.

Gonorrhea affects both men and women. If left untreated, it can lead to serious long-term health issues for both genders. These include problems with fertility and pregnancy as well as chronic pain. In men, it can even cause sterility.

It is important to get tested and treated for gonorrhea to prevent serious health issues.

Symptoms of Gonorrhea

People who contract gonorrhea may not have any symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they usually occur within a few days of the exposure. The most common symptoms of gonorrhea in men include:

• burning sensation while urinating

• discharge from the penis

• swollen or painful testicles

Common symptoms of gonorrhea in women include:

• burning sensation while urinating

• yellow or greenish vaginal discharge

• pain during sex

• bleeding between menstrual periods

Treating Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea can be treated with antibiotics. It is important to finish the full course of antibiotics to ensure that the bacteria is completely eliminated from the body. People who are infected should also try to avoid sexual contact until their treatment is completed.

It is also important for people to get tested for gonorrhea even if they don’t have any symptoms. Untreated gonorrhea can cause serious long-term health issues, so it is important to get tested and treated as soon as possible.

Preventing Gonorrhea

The best way to prevent gonorrhea is to practice safer sex. This includes using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners. It is also important to get tested for gonorrhea regularly and to get vaccinated against HPV and other STIs.

By following these tips, it is possible to reduce the risk of getting gonorrhea and other STIs.

Conclusion

Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health issues if left untreated. People should practice safer sex, limit their number of sexual partners, and get tested for gonorrhea regularly to reduce their risk of getting infected. It is also important to get treated immediately if gonorrhea is diagnosed to prevent serious health issues.