WHAT IS IT?: A bacterial infection

CAUSE: Neisseria gonorrhoeae  which is Gram-stain negative.  It is a cocci (round bacteria) that are together in pairs (This is called diplococci.)

TRANSMISSION Anal, oral, or vaginal intercourse; from mom to baby during vaginal delivery

SYMPTOMS: FIRST APPEARANCE: 2-30 days (usually 3-7) WOMEN - Genital- Thick, yellow vaginal discharge; possible bleeding between periods; possible bleeding after sex;  PID if untreated.  Rectal- Usually nothing, but may be possible discharge, rectal bleeding.  Oral- Usually nothing, but a possible sore throat.  MEN - Genital- Thick, yellow penile discharge; pain and burning with urination.  Rectal- Usually nothing, but may be possible discharge, rectal bleeding.  Oral- Usually nothing, but a possible sore throat.

TESTS: Gram stain Smear, culture or both. TESTING OF PARTNER IS ESSENTIAL

TREATMENT: Antibiotics

CURABLE: Yes, usually with penicillin.  However, several resistant strains have been found.  Follow-up is essential so that if penicillin doesn't work another antibiotic can be given.

LIFE TIME EFFECTS FOR YOU: Women: Untreated or treated late in the course of the infection, can cause PID, which can lead to  infertility or ectopic pregnancy. Men: Untreated or treated late in the course of the infection, it can cause scarring in the reproductive tract which causes sterility.

COMMENTS: Nearly 400,000 cases of gonorrhea are reported to the CDC every year in the US.  New penicillin resistant strains have developed so it's essential to go for follow-up to make sure the infection is gone.

Return to

OR Return to the Contraceptive Guide Main Menu, Click the Button and this Window Will Close OR Visit Other Areas of this Site by Clicking the Icons Women's Health Index Physician Page Pregnancy Childbirth Spirituality Published Articles Home Page Site Index

© 1996-99: MJ Bovo.  All rights reserved under US Copyright Law.