Everything You Need to Know About Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, has been a global public health concern for some time. With increased antimicrobial resistance in gonorrhea, it has become increasingly difficult for healthcare practitioners to treat the condition. According to the World Health Organization, 82 million cases were reported globally in 2020.

The infection can manifest in various parts of the body and can lead to complications if left untreated. Let’s look at gonorrhea meaning, its causes, and prevention methods.

What is Gonorrhea?

So, what is gonorrhea? It is a medical condition that can infect both men and women. It is mainly transmitted through sexual contact, including anal and oral sex. It can affect areas such as the genitals, rectum, and throat.

The infection often doesn’t show any symptoms in women. This emphasises the importance of STI screenings for individuals. If left untreated, gonorrhea can result in complications like infertility and an increased risk of contracting or transmitting sexually transmitted infections like acquired immunodeficiency syndrome or AIDS.

Transmission of Gonorrhea

The bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which is responsible for causing gonorrhea, is highly contagious. The infection can be spread through various forms of sexual activity. The main modes of transmission include:

• Vaginal Sex: Engaging in unprotected intercourse with an infected partner is a common way the infection spreads.

• Anal Sex: Engaging in anal intercourse with a partner who has gonorrhea can result in the transmission of the infection, which can affect the rectum.

• Oral Sex: If you engage in oral sex with a partner who is infected with gonorrhea, there is a risk of the infection affecting your throat.

• Vertical Transmission: When pregnant women have gonorrhea, there is a possibility of transmitting the infection to their newborn during childbirth. This transmission can lead to eye infections (conjunctivitis) in the newborn.

• Genital to Genital Contact: Close contact between genitals with a partner can facilitate the transmission of gonorrhea.

It’s important to note that gonorrhea can be transmitted even if the infected individual does not show any symptoms. It’s also worth mentioning that having had gonorrhea does not make you immune, and it is possible to get re-infected if exposed to the bacteria again.

Symptoms of Gonorrhea

The symptoms of gonorrhea can vary and may not always be present in women. Typically, when symptoms do occur, they appear within a few days to two weeks after infection. Notably, burning or pain during urination is an initial symptom.

Symptoms of gonorrhea in men may include:

• Discharge that resembles pus
• Swelling and discolouration at the opening of the penis
• Pain or swelling in the testicles
• Itching and soreness in the anus
• Rectal bleeding or discharge
• Discomfort during bowel movements

For women, symptoms can vary from mild to nonexistent. They may include:

• Discharge that’s watery, creamy, or greenish
• Pain or a burning sensation while urinating
• An increased urge to urinate
• Irregular periods or spotting
• Pain during vaginal intercourse
• Sharp pain in the lower abdomen
• Itching and soreness in the anus
• Rectal bleeding or discharge
• Painful bowel movements

It is worth noting that gonorrhea can also affect the mouth and throat and may lead to persistent sore throat, inflammation of the throat, redness, and swelling of lymph nodes in the neck.

In cases of untreated gonorrhea, the infection can spread to the eyes, causing symptoms such as eye pain, irritation, eyelid swelling, inflammation around the eye, and redness. The presence of mucus around the eye might also indicate an infection.

It is crucial to understand that gonorrhea symptoms may resemble those of infections, making it difficult to recognise. Regular screening for detection and immediate medical attention are essential for diagnosis and timely treatment.

Diagnosis of Gonorrhea

Accurate and prompt diagnosis is crucial to initiate treatment and prevent the spread of gonorrhea infection. The diagnostic process includes:

1. Clinical Assessment: Healthcare providers will inquire about symptoms, sexual history, and potential exposure to gonorrhea.

1. Physical Examination: A genital examination will be conducted to check for any signs of infection.

1. Laboratory Testing:

• Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAATs): These highly sensitive tests detect the genetic material of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Samples can be collected from the urethra, cervix, rectum, or throat.
• Urine Test: In cases where it’s not feasible to collect cervical swabs, a urine sample may be collected for NAAT testing.

1. Testing for STIs: Since gonorrhea often coexists with sexually transmitted infections (STIs), individuals diagnosed with gonorrhea may also be tested for additional STIs, like chlamydia, syphilis, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

1. Screening in Pregnant Women: During prenatal care, pregnant women are often screened for gonorrhea, particularly if they have an increased risk of contracting STIs.

Treatment of Gonorrhea

The treatment involves therapy aimed at eliminating the infection and preventing complications. Below are some guidelines for the treatment of gonorrhea:

• First Line Treatment:

The common initial approach involves using two different antibiotics to enhance effectiveness and reduce the risk of resistance. One common combination is ceftriaxone (administered via injection) and Azithromycin (taken orally).

• Alternative Antibiotics:

In situations where ceftriaxone is not suitable or if the patient has an allergy, alternative antibiotics like cefixime may be considered. Likewise, alternative options for azithromycin can also be taken into account.

• Follow Up Testing:

It is advised to undergo follow-up testing after treatment to ensure its effectiveness and to detect any cases of treatment failure or persistent infection.

• Treatment of Coexisting Infections:

Individuals diagnosed with gonorrhea are often treated for sexually transmitted infections, particularly chlamydia.

• Partner Treatment:

Sexual partners of individuals diagnosed with gonorrhea should also undergo testing and receive treatment to prevent reinfection and further transmission.

• Retesting:

Retesting for gonorrhea is typically advised around three months after treatment for individuals at risk of reinfection.

How can gonorrhea be prevented?

Here are some key measures to prevent gonorrhea:

1. Condom Use: Consistently and correctly use latex or polyurethane condoms. Please note that condoms do not offer absolute protection against transmitted infections (STIs). When using a condom, there is still a risk of transmission if there is contact with uncovered areas.

1. Regular screenings: It is important for individuals, especially those with multiple partners, to undergo regular screenings for STIs.

1. Partner communication: Open and honest communication about STI testing and sexual history with your partner is crucial in preventing the spread of gonorrhea.

1. Pre Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): This is a medication for individuals at risk of HIV infection. It should be noted that PrEP does not protect against gonorrhea but addresses another STI risk.

1. Avoid risky sexual behaviour: It is important to limit the number of partners and avoid engaging in risky behaviours such as unprotected sex with unknown partners to minimise the risk of contracting gonorrhea or other STIs.

1. Pregnancy screening: Routine screenings for gonorrhea during care are essential for pregnant women to prevent transmission to newborns during childbirth.

Conclusion

Understanding gonorrhea is vital for individuals, healthcare professionals, and communities alike. Gonorrhea continues to pose public health challenges due to its presence and ability to cause asymptomatic infections and the emergence of antibiotic resistance. Knowing the signs, diagnosis, and treatment options is crucial to intervene promptly and prevent this disease effectively. Having health insurance ensures access to timely diagnosis and effective treatment, playing a key role in managing and controlling conditions like gonorrhea.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.