Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a bacterium that can grow and multiply easily in the warm, moist areas of the reproductive tract, including the cervix (opening to the womb), uterus (womb), and fallopian tubes (egg canals) in women, and in the urethra (urine canal) in women and men. The bacterium can also grow in the mouth, throat, eyes, and anus. Many people do not experience any symptoms at all or symptoms are very mild. If symptoms are experienced they can appear anywhere from 2 to 30 days after infection and may include burning with urination, or a white, yellow, or green discharge. Some women may experience vaginal bleeding between periods and men may experience painful or swollen testicles.

Transmission

Gonorrhea is spread when the penis, vagina, mouth or anus comes in contact with sexual body fluids. Ejaculation does not have to occur for gonorrhea to be transmitted or acquired.

Complications

Untreated gonorrhea can cause serious and permanent health problems in both women and men. In women, gonorrhea is a common cause of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). (See section on PID). In Men, gonorrhea can cause epididymitis, a painful condition of the ducts attached to the testicles that may lead to infertility if left untreated.

Treatment

Several antibiotics can successfully cure gonorrhea. However, drug-resistant strains of gonorrhea are increasing in many areas of the world, including the United States. Successful treatment is becoming more diffucult. If a person’s symptoms continue even after receiving treatment, he or she should return to a medical provider to be reevaluated. It is important to take all of the medication prescribed to cure gonorrhea. Although medication will stop the infection, it will not repair any damage caused by the disease. It is important that both the infected person and his or her partner complete treatment. They should also abstain from sexual activity during treatment. Reinfection can occur.