Gonorrhea, often spelled as gonorrhea in some parts of the world, is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
It is a very common sexually transmitted infection in Kenya.
It can affect both men and women and is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person.
NB: Gonorrhea can also be transmitted to a new born baby from an infected mother during delivery. This condition is referred to as ophthalmia neonaturum.
This is actually the reason why once a health care provider has conducted a delivery, they normally instill some eye ointment that we refer to as TEO (tetracycline eye ointment) into the eyes of the new born baby.
1. Signs and Symptoms of Gonorrhoea:
A number of Kenyans with gonorrhea may not experience any symptoms, especially in the early stages of infection. This only increases the chances of infecting others. When symptoms do occur, they can vary and may include
- Painful urination in both males and females
- Pus like discharge from the tip of the penis
- Pain or swelling in one testicle
- Increased vaginal discharge(greenish or yellowish foul smelling discharge)
- Vaginal bleeding between periods
- Vaginal bleeding after intercourse
- Abdominal or pelvic pain in females
2. Diagnosis:
Gonorrhea is typically diagnosed through laboratory testing of samples taken from the genitals, throat, or rectum, depending on the location of suspected infection. Testing often involves urine samples, swabs, or cultures.
3. Treatment:
Gonorrhea can be effectively treated with antibiotics.
If you have concerns about gonorrhea or believe you may have been exposed to it, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. You can book an appointment with us by clicking on the link below https://hellodaktari.co.ke.
You will be able to get the necessary treatment and advice. We shall also be able to provide guidance on prevention and safe sexual practices. We also offer homebased care services in Nairobi and its environs.
4. Complications:
If left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to serious health complications.
- In women, it can cause, Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can result in infertility or ectopic pregnancy.
- In men, untreated gonorrhea can lead to epididymitis (inflammation of the tubes near the testicles) and infertility.
- Both men and women with untreated gonorrhea are at a higher risk of contracting HIV.
5. Prevention:
- The best way to prevent gonorrhea is through safe sexual practices, such as using condoms consistently and correctly. Regular testing for STIs, especially if you have multiple sexual partners, is also crucial.
- It’s important for sexual partners to get tested and treated if one partner is diagnosed with gonorrhea.
- For expectant mothers, it’s important to seek treatment in case one suspects they are suffering from gonorrhea.
- It is also crucial for newborns to receive Tetracycline eye ointment (TEO) in order to prevent them from acquiring Gonorrhea.
Healthcare Provider: If you suspect you have gonorrhea or have been exposed to someone with the infection, seek medical attention promptly. Do not rely on home remedies or over-the-counter medications for treatment. Reach out to us on https://hellodaktari.co.ke for proper management.