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WHAT IS IT?

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that can infect both men and women. It can cause infections in the genitals, rectum, and throat. It is a very common infection, especially among young people ages 15-24 years. Any sexually active person can be infected with gonorrhea. In the United States, the highest reported rates of infection are among sexually active teenagers, young adults, and African Americans. A pregnant woman can pass gonorrhea to her child which can cause blindness, joint infection or life-threatening blood infection in the baby.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

  • Pain while urinating
  • White, yellow, green urethral discharge
  • In men may complain of testicular or scrotal pain
  • Can be mistaken for bladder or vaginal infection in women
  • Increased vaginal discharge and bleeding between periods
  • Anal itching
  • Soreness
  • Bleeding
  • Painful bowel movements

HOW CAN I PREVENT CONTRACTING THIS DISEASE?

  • There is no vaccine for Gonorrhea
  • Gonorrhea can be cured with the right treatment.
  • Latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly, can reduce the risk of transmission of gonorrhea (Condom Fact Sheet)
  • Abstain from vaginal, anal, and oral sex
  • If you are sexually active getting tested for gonorrohea or other STDs
  • Long term monogamous relationship with a partner whom status you know to be negative

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Division of STD Prevention (DSTDP) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 

References:
CDC Basic Fact Sheet  Accessed 7/11/16
CDC Detailed Fact Sheet  Accessed 7/11/2016