Gonorrhoea - Symptoms, Testing, Risks & Treatment

By Stuart Bishop

Published: June 12, 2024

Understanding Gonorrhoea

Gonorrhea is a common bacterial STI. It is easily treated with antibiotics. It spreads through oral, vaginal, and anal sex. About 820,000 new cases happen in the US each year. Often, those infected with gonorrhea are unaware of it due to mild or absent symptoms.

It is known as “the drip” or “the clap.” Gonorrhea is common among teens and young adults. The infection is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It targets the mucous membranes of the reproductive system. In women, it targets the cervix, fallopian tubes, and uterus. In both men and women, it targets the urethra. It can also infect the penis, vagina, anus, throat, and, in rare cases, the eyes. If left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to severe health complications, including infertility.

Importance of Testing and Treatment

Regular STD testing is crucial, even if you feel healthy. Untreated gonorrhea can make both men and women infertile. It also raises susceptibility to other STIs. The infection is easily curable with antibiotics. Confidential testing and prompt treatment are essential for maintaining reproductive health.

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Symptoms of Gonorrhea

Many men and most women with gonorrhea exhibit no symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they differ between men and women.

In Women:

Pain or burning during urination.

Increased vaginal discharge.

Vaginal bleeding between periods.

In Men:

Painful urination.

White, yellow, or green discharge from the penis.

Painful or swollen testicles.

Rectal Infections (Both Men and Women):

Anal discharge, soreness, bleeding, or itching.

Painful bowel movements.

Gonorrhea in Different Parts of the Body

Gonorrhea can spread to the joints. This causes a condition called disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI). This can cause joint pain, swelling, and redness. It can lead to lasting joint damage and arthritis.

Rectum: Gonorrhea can infect the rectum, leading to rectal pain, discharge, and bleeding. Untreated rectal gonorrhea can raise the risk of other STIs. It can also lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.

Gonorrhea can cause conjunctivitis in the eyes. This is especially a risk for newborns, if the bacteria reach the eyes during childbirth. This condition can cause redness, itching, burning, and discharge. If untreated, it can lead to serious eye infections or blindness.

Transmission of Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea spreads through sex. It can spread through pre-cum, semen, or vaginal fluids of an infected partner. This can happen even without ejaculation. It can also spread from mother to baby during childbirth. It can cause blindness, joint infections, or life-threatening blood infections in the newborn. Pregnant women should get tested and treated. This prevents transmission to their babies.

Risk Factors

Anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea. This is especially true for those having unprotected sex. High-risk groups include sexually active teenagers and young adults. African Americans have the highest reported rates of infection.

The CDC recommends yearly gonorrhea screening for:

Women under 25.

Women over 25 with risk factors like new or multiple sex partners or partners with an STI.

Men who have sex with men.

Testing Recommendations

In the United States, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual chlamydia screenings for:

Women under 25.

Women over 25 with risk factors such as new or multiple sex partners or partners with an STI.

Pregnant women during their first prenatal visit, with retesting in the third trimester for those under 25.

Preventing Gonorrhoea

Abstinence is the only sure way to avoid gonorrhea. However, safer sex practices can significantly reduce risk:

Use latex or polyurethane condoms and dental dams consistently.

Engage in mutually monogamous relationships with partners who have tested negative.

Have open conversations about sexual health and get regularly tested.

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Gonococcus

The bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, known as gonococcus, causes gonorrhea. German physician Albert Neisser named it in 1879. The term combines Greek words for "seed" and "berry." It reflects the bacterium’s look under a microscope. Gonococcus spreads through sexual contact and from mother to baby during childbirth. Early detection and antibiotic treatment are crucial for preventing serious health complications.

Resources

- Mayo Clinic Gonorrhea Information

- CDC Gonorrhea Information

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