Gonorrhea, commonly known as gonorrhea, is a type of infection caused by a bacterium called Neisseria Gonorrhoeae (Gonococcus). Gonorrhea, the most common sexually transmitted disease, causes urethritis (inflammation of the urinary tract) in men and cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix) in women.
Gonorrhea (Gonorrhea) Symptoms
The most common symptom of gonorrhea in women is vaginal discharge. Yellow-green and foul-smelling discharge may rarely be accompanied by itching. There may also be burning during urination. After the discharge, the most common symptom is groin pain. Pain on both sides may be accompanied by fever, especially in the evening.
If the microorganism gets into the bloodstream, it can cause infection in the joints. This causes pain and swelling in the joints.
Another danger of gonorrhea is pelvic inflammatory disease. If the infection progresses to the tubes and ovaries, many complications can occur, including infertility.
How is Gonorrhea Transmitted?
Gonorrhea is transmitted by direct contact with the penis, vagina, mouth or anal area. It can be transmitted from mother to baby during childbirth, or a person can contract gonorrhea if they have sexual intercourse with gonorrhea carriers.
How is Gonorrhea Diagnosed?
Gonorrhea is diagnosed by vaginal examination followed by examination of cervical and vaginal discharge. There are various laboratory tests for diagnosis. Swabs are taken from infected areas such as the cervix, urethra, rectum, throat and sent to the laboratory.
How is Gonorrhea Treated?
Gonorrhea is generally susceptible to antibiotic treatment and recovery is achieved in a short time with oral antibiotics. One week after the antibiotic is administered, the cultures are repeated to check whether the infection has cleared. Patients who have been treated for gonorrhea will relapse if they come into contact with infected people again. If the symptoms of gonorrhea persist despite treatment, the patient should consult their doctor again. In addition, until the end of treatment, the patient and his or her partner can have protected sexual intercourse with a condom until the patient has undergone the necessary tests and has been cured.
