Gonorrhea
Overview
Causes
The infection is caused by a bacteria. It spreads during oral, genital, or anal sex with an infected partner. Someone with gonorrhea can also pass the infection to a baby during childbirth.
SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
Most people who have gonorrhea do not have symptoms. If they do happen, they may appear 1 to 14 days after exposure. Some may not have symptoms for a month.
Genital problems may include:
- Discharge from the penis
- Abnormal vaginal discharge and/or unusual vaginal bleeding
- Belly pain
- Burning while urinating
- Itching in the urethra
Rectal symptoms may be:
- Itching
- Soreness
- Bleeding
- Painful stools
Female Reproductive System Organs |
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Untreated gonorrhea can cause severe infections in:
- Joints
- Brain
- Eyes
- Heart
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. The doctor may suspect an STI based on symptoms. The testing may also be done as a screening test for those at high risk. A sample of fluids may be taken from one of the following:
- Vagina or penis
- Throat
- Rectum
- Urine
Treatments
Treatment
Gonorrhea is treated with antibiotics. All sex partners should be tested and treated. Reinfection is possible and fairly common. It is important to take all antibiotics as recommended. Many forms of gonorrhea are resistant to common antibiotics. Other antibiotics will be tried to treat the infection. Testing will help to make sure treatment was successful and the infection has been stopped.
Untreated gonorrhea can lead to damage of pelvic organs. This can cause problems with fertility, pregnancy, and disrupt urine flow. It can also cause painful sore and scarring.
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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