Gonorrhoea, which also used to be known as the clap, is a venereal disease that has been around for centuries. Thankfully with modern drugs and treatments, getting this infection under control is usually straightforward, but it is always better to treat it as soon as possible to prevent any long term damage to the reproductive organs.
What to look for
Symptoms can develop within weeks, or take several months. Gonorrhoea is caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoea bacterium which can be transmitted to men or women during anal, oral or vaginal sex. If infected, women may have an unusual discharge from the vagina. There may also be discomfort or burning when urinating, along with pain in the lower area of the abdomen. Periods may also be affected with periods becoming heavier, bleeding between periods or bleeding following sex. Gonorrhoea can lead to the development of pelvic inflammatory disease, which can cause infertility or ectopic pregnancies.
Men may notice a yellow, white or green discharge from their penis. There may also be pain when urinating, and the foreskin may become inflamed. More rarely, the testicles may become painful or tender. If the infection spreads to the testicles, it can eventually make men infertile. The bacterium can also infect the rectum and the throat. As there are nearly 80 million cases of gonorrhoea globally each year, there are concerns developing about the bacterium becoming resistant to the usual treatments, as reported in The Guardian.
Pass the test
The most important thing to do if symptoms of gonorrhoea or any other STI such as Chlamydia are noticed is to get tested. Testing can be carried out in a clinic or a doctor’s surgery, and DIY tests are also available. If you think you have been exposed to an infection you may appreciate the convenience of Home STI kits in London. Contact a reputable supplier such as https://www.greenwichsexualhealth.org/chlamydia_screening/ for advice and options related to Home STI kits in London.
Young people are frequently sexually active and often ignore their sexual health, which could be a significant source of concern later in life as a cause of ill health or sterility. Don’t gamble with your reproductive health and make sure that if you can’t always practise safe sex, then you can get yourself tested and treated to avoid problems.
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