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The Symptoms of Gonorrhoea
Overview
Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It is commonly known as 'the clap'. Gonorrhoea can infect both men and women and is readily transmitted through sexual contact. Understanding the symptoms of gonorrhoea is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment, especially considering the potential complications if left untreated.
Symptoms in Men
Men infected with gonorrhoea often experience symptoms within a couple of weeks of exposure. Common symptoms include:
- Urethral Discharge: A white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis is one of the hallmark signs. This discharge may be accompanied by discomfort or pain.
- Testicular Pain: Swelling and pain in one or both testicles may also be present. This can be an indication of complications and warrants immediate medical attention.
- Burning Sensation: Painful or burning sensations during urination are common, often indicating an infection in the urethra (urethritis).
- Frequent Urination: An increased urge to urinate, even if only small amounts are passed, can be noticed.
Symptoms in Women
In women, the symptoms of gonorrhoea can be more subtle and often mimic other infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs). They include:
- Vaginal Discharge: An unusual increase in vaginal discharge might occur. The discharge may be watery, creamy, or slightly green.
- Pelvic Pain: Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis, which can be mistaken for menstrual cramps, is a possible symptom.
- Painful Urination: Much like in men, women may experience a burning sensation when urinating.
- Bleeding: Intermenstrual bleeding or spotting, especially after sexual intercourse, can occur.
Symptoms in Throat and Rectum
Gonorrhoea can also affect the throat and rectum if exposed to the bacteria. Symptoms in these regions include:
- Throat: A sore throat, often mild and easily mistaken for other causes like a common cold or streptococcal infection.
- Rectum: Symptoms such as discharge, anal itching, soreness, bleeding, or painful bowel movements can occur in those who have engaged in receptive anal intercourse.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
Early detection and treatment of gonorrhoea are vital to prevent complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, epididymitis in men, and the possible spread of the infection to the blood or joints, leading to more severe health issues. If you suspect you have symptoms of gonorrhoea, it is important to seek medical advice and testing promptly.
In the United Kingdom, services such as the NHS Sexual Health Clinics offer confidential testing and treatment for gonorrhoea and other STIs. Using protection and having regular sexual health check-ups are effective ways to prevent the spread of this infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common symptoms of gonorrhoea in men?
Common symptoms of gonorrhoea in men include a burning sensation when urinating, white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis, painful or swollen testicles, and frequent urination.
What are the common symptoms of gonorrhoea in women?
Common symptoms of gonorrhoea in women include increased vaginal discharge, pain or burning sensation when urinating, vaginal bleeding between periods, and abdominal or pelvic pain.
Can gonorrhoea be asymptomatic?
Yes, gonorrhoea can be asymptomatic, meaning that some people infected with the bacterium may not show any symptoms.
How long does it take for symptoms of gonorrhoea to appear?
Symptoms of gonorrhoea typically appear within 2 to 14 days after exposure to the infection.
Can gonorrhoea cause complications if left untreated?
Yes, untreated gonorrhoea can lead to serious and permanent health problems such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, epididymitis in men, and an increased risk of HIV infection in both genders.
Can gonorrhoea affect other parts of the body?
Yes, in addition to the genital area, gonorrhoea can infect the rectum, throat, and eyes.
What are the symptoms of rectal gonorrhoea?
Symptoms of rectal gonorrhoea include discharge, anal itching, soreness, bleeding, and painful bowel movements.
What are the symptoms of gonorrhoea in the throat?
Gonorrhoea in the throat may cause a sore throat, but it is often asymptomatic.
How is gonorrhoea diagnosed?
Gonorrhoea is diagnosed through laboratory tests, which may include urine tests or swabs of affected areas.
How is gonorrhoea treated?
Gonorrhoea is treated with antibiotics, either through oral medication or an injection. It is important to complete the entire course of treatment.
Can I get gonorrhoea again after being treated?
Yes, it is possible to get gonorrhoea again if you are exposed to the infection again, even after successful treatment.
Should my sexual partners be tested if I have gonorrhoea?
Yes, if you are diagnosed with gonorrhoea, it is important to inform all recent sexual partners so they can be tested and treated if necessary.
Can gonorrhoea be prevented?
Gonorrhoea can be prevented by using condoms consistently and correctly during sex, engaging in mutually monogamous relationships with partners who have tested negative for STIs, and regular screening.
Is there a risk of passing gonorrhoea to my baby during childbirth?
Yes, gonorrhoea can be transmitted from mother to baby during childbirth, which can cause serious health issues for the newborn.
Where can I get tested for gonorrhoea in the UK?
You can get tested for gonorrhoea at GP surgeries, sexual health clinics, and Genitourinary Medicine (GUM) clinics in the UK.
Useful Links
Useful links from: Rectal swab test for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia
- NHS - Gonorrhoea NHS information page on Gonorrhoea, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
- NHS - Chlamydia NHS guide to Chlamydia, covering symptoms, testing, treatment, and prevention.
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Gonorrhoea Charity page by Terrence Higgins Trust providing detailed information on Gonorrhoea testing and treatment.
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Chlamydia Information on Chlamydia from Terrence Higgins Trust, including how to get tested and treatment options.
Useful links from: Urine test for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia
- NHS - Gonorrhoea Official NHS page providing comprehensive information about gonorrhoea, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
- NHS - Chlamydia NHS guide detailing the key aspects of chlamydia, such as its symptoms, testing, treatment, and prevention methods.
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Gonorrhoea Terrence Higgins Trust page offering detailed insights into gonorrhoea, methods of transmission, testing, and treatment options.
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Chlamydia An informative page by Terrence Higgins Trust focusing on chlamydia, including its symptoms, risk factors, testing, and available treatments.
Useful links from: Vaginal Swab test for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia
- NHS - Gonorrhoea Comprehensive information on Gonorrhoea, its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options provided by NHS.
- NHS - Chlamydia Detailed overview of Chlamydia, including symptoms, treatments, and preventive measures according to NHS guidelines.
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Gonorrhoea Information provided by the Terrence Higgins Trust on testing and screening for Gonorrhoea, including guidance on vaginal swabs.
- National Chlamydia Screening Programme NHS resource dedicated to the National Chlamydia Screening Programme, offering details on where and how to get screened for Chlamydia.
Useful links from: Pharyngeal swab for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia
- NHS - Gonorrhoea Comprehensive information on gonorrhoea, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention from the NHS.
- NHS - Chlamydia Detailed guide on chlamydia provided by the NHS, covering symptoms, risks, testing, and treatment.
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Gonorrhoea Information on gonorrhoea from the UK's leading HIV and sexual health charity, the Terrence Higgins Trust.
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Chlamydia An overview of chlamydia, including testing and treatment, from the Terrence Higgins Trust.
Useful links from: Understanding Your Sexual Health - Gonorrhoea
- NHS - Gonorrhoea Comprehensive information on gonorrhoea, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention from the National Health Service (NHS).
- Terrence Higgins Trust - Gonorrhoea Detailed resource on gonorrhoea provided by the Terrence Higgins Trust, which focuses on sexual health and offers support and advice for those affected.
- Brook - Gonorrhoea Information for young people on gonorrhoea, including transmission, symptoms, and treatment, from Brook, a UK-based charity promoting sexual health education.
- FPA - Gonorrhoea Resource on gonorrhoea from the Family Planning Association (FPA), offering insights into symptoms, testing, and treatment options.
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