Disease
Gonorrhea
Overview of Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Often referred to as (the clap), it spreads through sexual contact and can affect the genitals, rectum, throat and eyes. Though it may go unnoticed due to mild or no symptoms, untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious health issues. But thankfully, gonorrhea is curable with proper medical treatment.
Types of Gonorrhea
- Genital Gonorrhea: Affects the urethra, cervix or reproductive organs.
- Rectal Gonorrhea: Occurs due to anal sex, symptoms may include itching, discharge or pain.
- Oral Gonorrhea: Infection in the throat from oral sex, can feel like a sore throat.
- Ocular Gonorrhea: Rare eye infection caused by contact with infected fluids.
- Disseminated Gonorrhea: A serious form where the infection spreads through the bloodstream to joints or skin.
Symptoms of Gonorrhea
In Males
- Pain or burning during urination
- White, yellow or green discharge from the penis
- Painful or swollen testicles
- Sore throat if infected orally
In Females
- Increased or abnormal vaginal discharge
- Burning sensation when urinating
- Lower abdominal pain or pelvic cramps
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
- Mild or no symptoms in the early stages
In the Throat (Oral Gonorrhea)
- Persistent sore throat
- Redness or irritation in the throat
- Swollen neck glands
- Often no symptoms at all
Causes of Gonorrhea
- Caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a bacterium transmitted through sexual contact.
- Spread through vaginal, anal or oral sex.
- Can pass from mother to baby during childbirth.
- Rarely transmitted through deep kissing if infected saliva is present.
Complications in Gonorrhea
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in women, increasing infertility risk.
- Epididymitis in men, leading to infertility if untreated.
- Risk of ectopic pregnancy.
- Higher chances of contracting or spreading HIV.
- Joint infections or skin rashes in severe, untreated cases.
- Infection can pass to newborns, causing serious health problems.
Risk Factors of Gonorrhea
- Having unprotected sex with multiple partners.
- Being sexually active under the age of 25.
- Previous history of STDs.
- Not using protection with new or unknown partners.
- Men who have sex with men (higher oral and rectal gonorrhea risk).
Preventions of Gonorrhea
- Use condoms or dental dams during all types of sexual activity.
- Get tested regularly, especially with new or multiple partners.
- Avoid sex if you or your partner have symptoms.
- Ensure both partners complete treatment before resuming sexual activity.
- Encourage open and honest conversations about STDs in relationships.
Diagnosis of Gonorrhea
- Urine test to detect bacterial presence
- Swab tests from throat, rectum or genitals
- Lab cultures help confirm the diagnosis
- Testing recommended even with no symptoms if you are sexually active
Treatments of Gonorrhea
- Treated with antibiotics, usually a one-time injection.
- Some cases may require oral antibiotics alongside the shot.
- Important to complete the full course of treatment.
- All sexual partners should be tested and treated to stop reinfection.
- Avoid sexual contact until treatment is finished and follow-up tests are done.
Prognosis of Gonorrhea
- Excellent recovery when diagnosed and treated early
- Risk of long-term complications increases with delayed treatment
- Reinfection is common without protective measures or partner treatment
- Regular screening helps maintain sexual health and prevent complications
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- Personalised and confidential care from expert doctors
- Fast and accurate testing using modern lab techniques
- Treatment plans tailored to your medical history and symptoms
- Support in managing emotional and social concerns
- Follow-up services to ensure full recovery and safety of partners
- Trusted environment where patients feel heard and respected
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- Can I get gonorrhea even with no symptoms?
- Is this the same as “the clap” I have heard about?
- Will my partner need to be treated too?
- Can I have sex during treatment or not?
- Can it affect future fertility or pregnancy?
- How often should I get tested?
- Can I get oral gonorrhea from kissing or oral sex?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
- A calm, private space to speak openly about concerns
- No judgment, just medical help and support
- Explanation of the condition and how it spreads
- Clear instructions on tests, treatment and recovery
- Respectful answers to all personal or sexual health questions
- Help in notifying and treating your partner(s) if needed
- Assurance of confidentiality and continuous care