What is gonorrhoea?

Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacterium. It primarily affects the mucous membranes of the reproductive and urinary tract, as well as other areas like the throat, eyes, mouth, and rectum. Often referred to as "the clap" or "the drip," gonorrhoea is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases globally.

How is gonorrhoea spread?

Gonorrhoea is mainly spread through unprotected sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex with an infected person. It can be transmitted even if the infected person doesn't exhibit any symptoms.

Transmission occurs through contact with the penis, vagina, mouth, or anus. Additionally, a pregnant woman with gonorrhoea can pass the infection to her baby during childbirth.

What are the symptoms of gonorrhoea?

The symptoms of gonorrhoea can vary based on the site of infection and gender. Some individuals might not experience any symptoms at all. In males, symptoms might include a burning sensation during urination, increased frequency of urination, discharge from the penis (which may be white, yellow, or green), and swollen or painful testicles.

In females, symptoms can include painful urination, increased vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding between periods, and abdominal pain. Both genders might experience symptoms in the throat, eyes, or rectum if those areas are infected.

What are the complications of gonorrhoea?

If left untreated, gonorrhoea can lead to severe complications. In women, it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can result in chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility.

In men, untreated gonorrhoea might lead to epididymitis, causing infertility. Moreover, the infection can spread to the bloodstream and cause disseminated gonococcal infection, leading to joint pain, skin lesions, and, in rare cases, life-threatening conditions such as endocarditis or meningitis.

How is gonorrhoea diagnosed?

Diagnosing gonorrhoea involves various methods. Doctors often perform a physical examination and inquire about symptoms. Testing methods include urine tests, swabbing the affected area (urethra, cervix, throat, or rectum), or a culture test from these samples. Rapid molecular tests are also available to detect the DNA of the bacteria, providing quicker results.

What is the treatment for gonorrhoea?

Gonorrhoea is primarily treated with antibiotics. However, due to the increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant strains, the choice of antibiotics may vary. The usual treatment involves a single dose of an antibiotic, but in some cases, a combination of antibiotics might be prescribed.

It's crucial to complete the entire course of medication as directed by a doctor even if symptoms disappear, to ensure complete eradication of the infection.

How can gonorrhoea be prevented?

Preventing gonorrhoea involves practising safe sex. Using condoms correctly and consistently during sexual activity significantly reduces the risk of contracting or transmitting the infection.

Limiting sexual partners and knowing their sexual health status is essential. Regular testing for STIs, especially after engaging in unprotected sex or having multiple partners, can help in early detection and treatment.