Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted disease (STI) in the Netherlands, particularly prevalent in men who have sex with men. This STI is caused by a bacterium called Neisseria gonorrhoeae or gonococcus. Untreated gonorrhea can have serious consequences, but fortunately it is easily treated with antibiotics.
Symptoms of gonorrhea can occur several days to weeks after infection and vary depending on gender.
In women:
Women do not always notice that they have contracted gonorrhea. Some possible symptoms include:
- Increased vaginal discharge that smells unpleasant or appears pus-like
- Loss of blood between periods
- Pain or irritation when urinating
- Irritation or itching around the anus
- Slimy or pus-like discharge from the stool
- Sore throat
Untreated gonorrhea can spread deeper into the body, with risk of inflamed fallopian tubes, ectopic pregnancy, infertility and premature birth.
In men:
Men usually notice that they have contracted gonorrhea. Symptoms include:
- A "dripping": excessive pus-like discharge from the urethra, yellow or green in color
- Pain or irritation when urinating
- Irritation or itching around the anus
- Slimy or pus-like discharge from the stool
- Throat inflammation or swollen glands in the neck
Untreated gonorrhea can spread deeper to the epididymis or prostate.
Treatment of gonorrhea:
Gonorrhea is effectively treated with an injection of antibiotics or pills. Follow-up treatment may sometimes be necessary. During the first week after treatment, gonorrhea can still be contagious, so it is advisable not to have sexual contact during that time or at least use a condom.
Warn partners:
It is important to notify your sex partner(s) if you have contracted gonorrhea. Partners of the last 4-6 weeks should be warned if there are symptoms, otherwise partners of the last six months. They can then get tested even if they have no symptoms. This is crucial for their health and to prevent further spread of gonorrhea.
If you find it difficult to warn your partner(s) yourself, you can use partnerwarning.com.
If you have any questions or need more information, please do not hesitate to contact us via the 'start treatment' button at 247dermatologist. | https://247dermatologist.com