Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can infect both males and females of any age. According to reports, the disease mostly affects people between the ages of 15 and 30.
The STI tends to target warm and moist areas of the body, including the eyes, urethra, rectum or throat, and cervix in females.
Gonorrhoea is mostly spread through sexual intercourse (vaginal or anal). In addition, the babies of infected mothers can be infected during birth. The eyes are the most affected organ among babies.
The best way to prevent the spread of STIs is to use a condom during sex or abstain from sex until both partners are in a mutually monogamous relationship.
When STI is left untreated, one can experience long-term health issues such as infertility. Some effective medications and treatments can cure the disease and prevent health complications.
What are the symptoms of Gonorrhoea?
The symptoms can vary among males and females. In men, the symptoms are noticeable within 2 to 30 days after exposure to the infection. Sometimes, it may take several weeks where burning or pain during urination may be the first noticeable symptom.
- Painful urination
- Pus-like discharge from the tip of the penis
- Painful or swollen testicles
- Pain in testicles
- Pain when having bowel movements
- Increase in frequency of urination
- Rectal bleeding or discharge
Most women don’t develop any symptoms. However, they can occur anywhere between days to weeks after someone is exposed to the infection. Moreover, the symptoms are often mild. And sometimes, the symptoms are hard to recognize because they are similar to the symptoms of vaginal yeast or other bacterial infections.
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Pain or burning while urinating
- Bleeding after sex or periods
- Itching in the anus
- Abdominal or pelvic pain
- Discharge
- Lower abdomen pain
- Increased urination
- Heavy periods
- Soreness
- Aster Hospital is one of the best hospitals in Dubai. Please consult a doctor if you experience any of the symptoms.
Risk factors of Gonorrhoea
The chances of Gonorrhoea increase in men when they are engaged in sex with other men. Whereas the risk increases for sexually active women younger than 25.
Other risk factors are
- Having multiple sex partners
- Having a sex partner who has other partners
- Having a new sex partner
Prevention is always better than cure
There are no vaccines for Gonorrhoea. But, researchers are working to develop a vaccine to prevent the transmission of the infection.
The best way to prevent the infection and other STIs is through sexual abstinence. One can lower the risk of experiencing Gonorrhoea by following these tips:
- Use a condom or other barrier method during sex (oral, anal, or vaginal)
Always carry an open conversation about STIs with new partners before starting a sexual relationship. It is a vital element in preventing the spread of the infection.Furthermore, one should also discuss STIs with their current partners and make sure that they regularly test for STIs. Always consult a good doctor to know more about the disease.