Gonorrhea is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that affects women, which is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. This infection often goes unnoticed because it does not ALWAYS cause symptoms.
However, untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious complications, including infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and pregnancy complications.
What is Gonorrhea?
Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the reproductive tract, but it can also infect the throat, eyes, and rectum.
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In women, it often infects the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes.
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In men, it mainly affects the urethra.
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Oral sex can spread gonorrhea to the throat, and anal sex can spread it to the rectum.
How is Gonorrhea Transmitted?
Gonorrhea spreads through sexual contact with an infected person. This includes:
It is important to note that gonorrhea cannot be spread through casual contact like hugging, sharing utensils, or sitting on toilet seats.
Symptoms of Gonorrhea in Women
Many women with gonorrhea have mild or no symptoms, which is why the infection is sometimes called “silent.” When symptoms do appear, they may include:
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Unusual vaginal discharge (yellow or greenish)
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Burning sensation when urinating
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Vaginal bleeding between periods
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Painful or swollen glands at the vaginal opening
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Lower abdominal or pelvic pain (if infection spreads)
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Pain during sex
Diagnosis of Gonorrhea
Doctors can diagnose gonorrhea through:
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Lab tests of urine samples
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Swabs from the cervix, vagina, throat, or rectum
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Note: Regular STI screenings are recommended for sexually active women, especially those with new or multiple partners.
Treatment of Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea can be treated and cured with antibiotics. However, antibiotic resistance is becoming a growing global concern, making proper treatment even more crucial. So, the CDC recommends a single injection of ceftriaxone as the standard treatment of Gonorrhea.
However, oral antibiotics may be added if there’s a risk of chlamydia co-infection, and both partners must be treated to avoid reinfection.
Note: Do not self-medicate with leftover antibiotics. Improper use can worsen resistance. Always follow a doctor’s prescription.
Prevention of Gonorrhea
Prevention is the most effective way to protect yourself, so:
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Use condoms or dental dams consistently during sex
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Limit the number of sexual partners
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Get regular STI tests
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Avoid sharing unwashed sex toys
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Encourage your partner(s) to get tested before sex
Complications of Gonorrhea if Untreated
If gonorrhea is left untreated, it can cause:
To Recap
Gonorrhea is a treatable bacterial infection, but it should never be ignored, because symptoms in women can be mild or absent. Always go for regular testing, practice safe sex, and if anything is off, alert your doctor, as early treatment is essential for protecting your reproductive health.
Have you ever gone for an STI screening or encouraged your partner to do so?
Researched by Mercy Adeniyi.
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