Gonorrhoea is an infection due to a sexually transmitted bacterium affecting both males and females. It affects the urethra, rectum, throat areas and cervix in females. It is generally spread during vaginal, oral, or anal intercourse, and the babies of infected mothers can also be infected with this sexually transmitted disease (STD).
It is essential to use a condom when having sex and maintain monogamous relationships to prevent such diseases. However, if you have multiple sexual partners and are experiencing some new symptoms following intercourse, read on to find out about some symptoms of gonorrhoea and how to get treatment for it.
What are some symptoms of gonorrhoea?
Gonorrhoea can be tricky, as the infection can affect many parts of your body but show no tell-tale symptoms. However, here are some common symptoms of an STD that occur in men and women. Men might experience pain while urinating, a pus-like discharge coming from their penis, and pain or swelling in the testicle. On the other hand, women might experience increased vaginal discharge, pain while urinating, bleeding between their menstrual cycles, especially after vaginal intercourse, and abdominal pain.
Gonorrhoea can also target other body parts. Some signs could be feeling an itch in the anus, having pus-like discharge from the rectum, bleeding and straining during bowel movements. There might also be swollen lymph nodes in the neck area, and the joints might be red, swollen, and painful during movement. It can also cause eye pain, increase sensitivity to light and pus-like discharge from the eyes.
What is the diagnosis of gonorrhoea like?
If you suspect any of these symptoms, it may be good to visit your doctor for a test. A general diagnosis of gonorrhoea usually includes an analysis of sample cells. You will have to do a urine test or take a swab in the affected area so your doctor can identify if you are tested positive for STD.
Your doctor may also advise you to test for other infections, as gonorrhoea increases the chances of other infections, such as chlamydia.
What is gonorrhoea treatment like?
Gonorrhoea is commonly treated with antibiotics such as azithromycin, which takes about a week to cure. However, do refrain from having intercourse without protection during this week, as you may pass your infection to your sexual partner. Additionally, if you find out you have gonorrhoea, your partner should go through treatment for gonorrhoea even if they have no symptoms, as they can pass it back to you even after you have been cured.
Conclusion
Like all other STDs, you can reduce the risks and protect yourself from gonorrhoea by having protected intercourse with a condom. If you notice any new and unusual symptoms after intercourse, it is recommended to visit an STD clinic in Singapore to get a STD test. You should not feel ashamed to seek treatment if you believe you have contracted an STD, as you limit yourself from a better life. Here at Elyon Clinic, we have sexual health experts who can advise you on the best treatment for your condition. Please contact us at 6802 7208 to book a consultation today.
