Gonorrhoea is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria, Neisseria gonorrhoea. Sometimes called 'the clap', it is spread by having unprotected anal, oral or vaginal sex with an infected individual. Depending on the sexual activity, it can infect the urethra, vagina, cervix, the anal canal or the throat. Once established the bacteria grow rapidly in these warm, moist areas and may give unpleasant symptoms.
Most women do not get symptoms. However, some women may experience pain when passing urine and notice an unusual vaginal discharge, while others may experience pain during vaginal sex.
Most men feel a 'burning' sensation when passing urine and/or notice a yellow/white discharge from the penis with a week from infection.
In both sexes, the symptoms of rectal infection may include anal itching, soreness or even discharge, but most people do not experience these. Infection of the throat may cause a sore throat but again, most do not experience this.
Untreated gonorrhoea can lead to infertility in both men and women.
Testing for gonorrhoea is done via a simple swab test. Your doctor, upon consultation with you, can order this test for you. At Holdsworth House Medical Practice, this test can be performed confidentially on the day of your consultation. You are then required to return for follow up on the results within a week.
Gonorrhoea is easily treated with either a single dose or course of antibiotics. Sexual partners should be tested, even if they have no symptoms. Sex should be avoided for 7 days after treatment – if you can't do this then use a condom. If your symptoms continue even after receiving treatment please return to your doctor at Holdswor House Medical Practice to be re-evaluated.
Even if you have had gonorrhoea in the past and were treated, you can get the disease again if you have sex with someone who has it. This is why regular sexual health checks are a good idea because you may have gonorrhoea and not know.
The best way to avoid contracting gonorrhoea is to practice safe sex and always use a condom with water-based lubricant during sexual intercourse.
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