Gonorrhoea
Gonorrhoea is a bacterial infection infecting the cervix in women, and the urethra, rectum, anus and throat in both men and women.
Transmission
Sexual contact with an infected partner.
Signs and symptoms
Women
These might include:
- Vaginal discharge that may be yellow or greenish in colour, and with a strong smell
- Pain or burning sensation when passing urine.
- Irritation and/or discharge from the anus.
Men
These might include:
- Yellow or white discharge from the penis.
- Irritation and/or discharge from the anus.
Treatment
Gonorrhoea is easily treated with antibiotics. Any sexual partner(s) will also need to be treated. It is advisable to avoid sexual contact until treatment of yourself and any partner(s) is completed.
Complications in women
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) if left untreated, which can cause infertility.
- Ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the womb).
- Painful sexual intercourse.
- Infection of baby during childbirth. This can result in an eye infection causing blindness.
Complications in men
- Inflammation of the testicles and prostate gland, which could cause infertility.
Prevention
Using a condom or dental dam reduces the risk of infection.
