Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It primarily affects the mucous membranes of the genital tract, rectum, and throat.

SUGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Symptoms can vary by sex and infection site:

In Men

  • Burning sensation during urination

  • White, yellow, or green discharge from the penis

  • Pain or swelling in one or both testicles

In Women

  • Increased vaginal discharge

  • Painful urination

  • Vaginal bleeding between periods

  • Pelvic or abdominal pain

In Rectal Infections (Both Sexes)

  • Anal itching

  • Discharge from the rectum

  • Painful bowel movements

In Throat Infections

  • Sore throat

  • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

COMPLICATIONS

If untreated, gonorrhea can cause:

  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in women, leading to infertility

  • Epididymitis in men, potentially causing infertility

  • Disseminated Gonococcal Infection (DGI), spreading to the blood and joints

  • Increased risk of HIV transmission

TRANSMISSION

  • Sexual contact (vaginal, anal, or oral sex) with an infected person

  • From mother to baby during childbirth

CAUSATIVE AGENT

  • Neisseria gonorrhoeae (a Gram-negative diplococcus bacterium)

INCUBATION PERIOD

  • Typically 2 to 14 days, with symptoms appearing within 4–7 days in most cases

RESERVOIR

  • Humans are the only natural reservoir

PREVENTION AND CONTROL

  • Abstinence or monogamous relationships with an uninfected partner

  • Consistent and correct use of condoms

  • Regular STI testing for sexually active individuals

  • Prompt treatment of infected individuals and their partners

  • Education on safe sexual practices

TREATMENT

  • Antibiotics: The CDC currently recommends ceftriaxone (intramuscular injection) as the first-line treatment.

  • Due to antibiotic resistance, dual therapy (e.g., azithromycin + ceftriaxone) is no longer routinely recommended but may be used in certain cases.

  • Sexual partners should also be treated to prevent reinfection.

  • Re-testing after treatment is advised to ensure the infection is cleared.

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