(gon-o-RHEE-a)
Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infections caused by the bacterium neisseria gonorrhoeae and can cause sterility, arthritis and heart problems. In women, gonorrhea can also cause pelvic inflammatory disease, which can lead to ectopic pregnancy or sterility. Gonorrhea can infect the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes of women and the urethra, mouth, throat, and rectum of both men and women. More than 700,000 Americans get gonorrhea every year.
Common Symptoms:
In women:
- Frequent, often burning urination.
- Menstrual irregularities.
- Pelvic or lower abdominal pain.
- Pain during sex.
- Yellowish or yellow-green discharge from the vagina.
- Swelling or tenderness of the vulva.
In men:
- A pus-like discharge from the urethra.
- Burning during urination.
- Fever.
- Swollen or painful testicles.
80 percent of women and 10 percent of men with gonorrhea show no symptoms.
Testing and Treatment: Testing and treatment for gonorrhea are available at all PPWP health center sites. Please see Fees for Services on our website for more information about our sliding fee options.
Testing: A diagnosis of Gonorrhea is determined by a lab test of a sample secretion from the vagina, penis or rectum. At PPWP’s health centers, the test for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea are combined.
Treatment: Gonorrhea infections are treated with antibiotics. All partners must be treated.
Reduce Your Risk: The use of latex condoms can reduce the risk of contracting Gonorrhea.
