All you need to know about Gonorrhoea, its causes, effects, and treatment

Causes:

Gonorrhea is primarily spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, oral, or anal sex with an infected person.

It can also be transmitted from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. Unprotected sexual activity, multiple partners, and engaging in sexual intercourse at a young age increase the risk of contracting gonorrhea.

Effects:

If left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to various complications. In women, it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can result in chronic pelvic pain, infertility, or ectopic pregnancy. In men, it may lead to epididymitis, a painful condition affecting the tubes that carry sperm.

Both men and women can experience disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI), where the infection spreads to other parts of the body, causing joint pain, skin rashes, and fever.

Treatment:

Gonorrhea can be treated with antibiotics. However, due to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains, it is essential to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Typically, a combination of antibiotics is prescribed to ensure effective eradication of the infection.

It is crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms disappear, to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.

Prevention:

Prevention is key in reducing the risk of gonorrhea. Practicing safe sex, such as using condoms consistently and correctly, can significantly reduce the chances of transmission.

Limiting sexual partners and ensuring regular STI screenings are also important preventive measures.

Vaccines for gonorrhea are under development but are not yet widely available.

Seeking Medical Help:

If you suspect you have been exposed to gonorrhea or are experiencing symptoms such as abnormal discharge, pain during urination, or pelvic pain, it is vital to seek medical attention promptly.

A healthcare professional can conduct tests to confirm the infection and provide appropriate treatment options.

Remember, open communication, practicing safe sex, and regular STI screenings are crucial for maintaining sexual health and preventing the spread of gonorrhea and other STIs.