Gonorrhea

What is gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a STD that infects both men and women. Gonorrheal infection affects the genitals, rectum, and even throat. It is very common especially among young people within the age of 15-24 years.

How is gonorrhea spread?

Gonorrhea is contracted by having oral, vaginal, or anal intercourse with someone who has the disease. A pregnant woman infected with gonorrhea can also pass the infection to the baby during childbirth. 
How can I reduce my risk of getting gonorrhea?
Abstain from vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
A monogamous relationship with a partner who has tested negative
Using latex condoms correctly every time you have sex, also reduces the chance of transmission.

Symptoms

 *Gonorrhea may present with no symptoms at all. 

Men

Men who have symptoms present with:

• Burning sensation when urinating
• white, yellow, or green discharge 
• Painful and/or swollen testicles

Women

Symptoms in women are usually mild and may be mistaken for a bladder or vaginal infection. 
Women who have symptoms present with:

• Painful or burning sensation while urinating
• Increased vaginal discharge that may have foul odor
• Bleeding between periods.

Rectal infections in both men and women may include:

• Anal itching
• Soreness 
• Bleeding
• Painful bowel movements

Treatment of Uncomplicated Gonococcal Infections of the Cervix, Urethra, and Rectum:

CDC recommends dual therapy, or using two drugs, to treat gonorrhea
A single dose of 250mg of intramuscular ceftriaxone AND 1g of oral azithromycin.
Alternative Regimens (If ceftriaxone is not available)
Cefixime 400 mg orally in a single dose
PLUS
Azithromycin 1 g orally in a single dose or Doxycycline 100 mg by mouth twice a daily for 7 days
A 400-mg oral dose of cefixime should only be considered as an alternative cephalosporin regimen because it does not provide as high, nor as sustained, bactericidal blood levels as a 250-mg dose of ceftriaxone; further, it demonstrates limited efficacy for treatment of pharyngeal gonorrhea