Understanding Gonorrhea: Symptoms, Risks, and Effective Treatments

Gonorrhea, often referred to by slang terms such as 'the clap' or 'morning dew drop,' is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacterium. This article delves into the various aspects of gonorrhea, including how it's contracted through contact with infected bodily fluids, its potential to cause serious health problems like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility if untreated, and its increased risk of HIV transmission. Symptoms can range from a burning sensation during urination to increased vaginal discharge, and may take up to 30 days to appear or, in some cases, may not present at all. Diagnosis typically involves swab tests, and treatment includes antibiotics. The piece underscores the crucial role of condoms in reducing the risk of gonorrhea and advises on the importance of completing prescribed antibiotic courses and informing recent sexual partners if infected. Reliable sources such as the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, WebMD, and Planned Parenthood back the information provided.