What is Gonorrhea?
Gonorrhea is a
sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It commonly affects the
urethra, rectum, throat, and, in women, the cervix. It can also infect the eyes and joints, although these instances are less common.
How is Gonorrhea Transmitted?
The primary mode of transmission is through
sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It can also be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her baby during childbirth, potentially causing serious complications for the newborn.
What are the Symptoms of Gonorrhea?
Many people with gonorrhea may not exhibit symptoms, making it particularly insidious. When symptoms do occur, they can vary by the site of infection: Urethral infection: Painful urination, increased urinary frequency, and a purulent discharge.
Rectal infection: Rectal pain, discharge, and sometimes bleeding.
Throat infection: Sore throat and swollen lymph nodes.
Cervical infection: Vaginal discharge, lower abdominal pain, and bleeding between periods.
How is Gonorrhea Diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves laboratory tests such as
nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), which detect the genetic material of the bacteria. Swabs may be taken from the infected sites—urethra, cervix, rectum, or throat—or a urine sample may be used.
What are the Complications of Untreated Gonorrhea?
If left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to severe complications including: Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in women, which can cause infertility.
Epididymitis in men, which can also lead to infertility.
Disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI), which can affect the joints, heart, and other parts of the body.
Increased risk of acquiring or transmitting
HIV.
What is the Treatment for Gonorrhea?
The standard treatment involves
antibiotic therapy. Due to rising antibiotic resistance, the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently recommends a dual therapy of ceftriaxone and azithromycin. It is crucial to complete the entire course of medication even if symptoms disappear early.
How Can Gonorrhea be Prevented?
Prevention strategies include: Consistent and correct use of
condoms.
Regular screening for sexually active individuals, especially those with multiple partners.
Mutual monogamy with an uninfected partner.
Education and awareness campaigns targeting at-risk populations.
What is the Importance of Partner Notification?
It is essential to notify all recent sexual partners if you are diagnosed with gonorrhea so they can also be tested and treated. This helps to prevent the further spread of the infection and reduces the risk of
reinfection.
What is the Role of Public Health in Managing Gonorrhea?
Public health plays a critical role in the management of gonorrhea by: Monitoring and reporting cases to identify trends and outbreaks.
Implementing screening programs in high-risk populations.
Providing resources for education and prevention.
Conducting research on antibiotic resistance and new treatment options.