Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a common STI caused by a bacteria and spread through sexual fluids, including vaginal fluid and semen. You can get gonorrhea from intercourse, anal sex, oral sex, or sharing sex toys with an infected person.

If you suspect you have been exposed to gonorrhea get tested and treated right away. Left untreated, gonorrhea can cause several long-term health problems and can even be life-threatening.

How is gonorrhea diagnosed?

Your doctor can test your urine or body fluid for the bacteria that causes gonorrhea. National guidelines recommend yearly screening for gonorrhea, for those in high-risk groups, including women under 25.

Often gonorrhea does not cause noticeable symptoms, but women who do experience symptoms may notice the following:

• Unusual vaginal discharge

• Pain in your lower abdomen

• Pain during sex

• Pain on burning when you pee

• Bleeding between periods

How is gonorrhea treated?

Prompt treatment with antibiotics can cure gonorrhea, however, some forms of gonorrhea have developed a high level of antibiotic resistance. Talk with your doctor about the treatment that is right for you, and don’t take anyone else’s medication to treat your infection.