Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is an STI caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae.  It is spread through sexual contact and may also be passed to the eyes through hand contact between the infected area and the eyes.  It is usually asymptomatic (up to 80% of women with gonorrhea have no symptoms, and up to 50% of men with gonorrhea have no symptoms). Left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (up to 20% of women with untreated gonorrhea will develop PID), though it gonorrhea is easily treatable.

Symptoms
-vaginal discharge
-vaginal soreness
-lower abdominal pain
-burning while peeing
-bleeding after intercourse
-fever
-sore throat
-pain while defecating

Testing and Diagnosis
-urine sample or swab during a pelvic exam

Prevention
-barrier methods
-limit number of sexual partners
-monogamous relationship with an STI-free partner

Treatment
-Gonorrhea is easily treatable with antibiotics.

Complications
-Women can develop pelvic inflammatory disease and become sterile if gonorrhea is left untreated. See your healthcare provider if you suspect that you may have been exposed.