What is gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can infect the genitals, rectum, and throat.

How is gonorrhea diagnosed?

Gonorrhea is diagnosed using urine samples. The sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis, where a test called Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) is conducted. NAAT detects the genetic material of the Gonorrhea bacteria, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, in the urine sample, allowing for accurate diagnosis of the infection.

What are the symptoms of Gonorrhea?

Symptoms of Gonorrhea can vary but commonly include pain or burning sensation during urination, unusual discharge from the genitals, and in some cases, pain or swelling in the testicles for men and pelvic pain for women. However, many people infected with Gonorrhea may not experience any symptoms.

How soon after exposure can Gonorrhea be detected?

Gonorrhea can be detected as early as 2 to 6 days after exposure through testing, but it may take longer for symptoms to appear.

What happens if the Gonorrhea test comes back positive?

If the Gonorrhea test comes back positive, treatment with antibiotics is necessary to clear the infection and prevent complications. It's also important to notify any recent sexual partners so they can be tested and treated if necessary.

Should I get tested for other STIs along with Gonorrhea?

Yes, it's recommended to get tested for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) along with Gonorrhea, as many STIs can coexist or have similar symptoms. This may include testing for chlamydia, syphilis, HIV, and others.

What are the risks of untreated Gonorrhea?

If left untreated, Gonorrhea can lead to serious health complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can cause infertility or ectopic pregnancy. In men, untreated Gonorrhea can cause epididymitis, which may also lead to infertility.