gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. This bacterium thrives in warm, moist areas of the body, including the genitals, rectum, and throat. It is spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the infection.

It has been known for a very long time and has sometimes been called by old slang names such as "the clap." Those names are now dated, and people usually use the medical term instead. Today, it can be treated with antibiotics, but drug resistance is becoming a bigger problem, so prevention and early testing matter even more.

Symptoms can vary between men and women. Men may experience painful urination and discharge from the penis. Women often have milder symptoms or no symptoms at all, which makes testing crucial. Untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious complications like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, infertility in both sexes, and an increased risk of HIV infection.

Because many people with this infection do not notice any symptoms, regular STI screening is important for people who are sexually active. Open communication with partners about sexual health history and safer sex practices, such as using condoms, can lower the risk of passing it on. If someone thinks they may have been exposed or notices possible symptoms, they should seek medical care promptly. Getting tested and treated early helps protect both personal health and the health of others.