A type of sexually transmitted infection (STI), gonorrhoea does not always cause symptoms. When they do occur, people may experience pain during sex, abnormal vaginal or penile discharge, and painful urination.
This type of STI results from bacteria and is very treatable. Receiving prompt treatment is critical for preventing more serious health effects and stopping gonorrhoea from spreading to other people.
Most people with gonorrhoea receive an antibiotic injection after being diagnosed with the common STI. The majority of those diagnosed receive ceftriaxone, but doctors can also use a combination of gentamicin (injected medication) and azithromycin (oral medication).
It usually takes about two weeks for the infection to clear. During that time, it is important to abstain from sex, even if you have been treated. Also, doctors recommend follow-up STI testing to make certain that the infection actually cleared post-treatment.
While antibiotics are highly effective when it comes to STIs like gonorrhoea, they cannot prevent future infections from occurring. In this case, it is important to protect your sexual health and wellness by taking the following smart steps:
If you are diagnosed with gonorrhoea or another STI, you must inform any current and past sexual partners you have had over the last 60 days. Doing so allows these individuals to get tested and seek treatment if necessary.