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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