3 scary complications of gonorrhea

The article provides a comprehensive overview of gonorrhea, a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It outlines the nature of the infection, its transmission routes, symptoms, potential complications, and treatment options. Gonorrhea primarily affects the genitals, rectum, and throat, and can sometimes infect the eyes. While many cases, especially in women, are asymptomatic, symptoms may include painful urination, unusual discharge, pelvic or testicular pain, and rectal discomfort.
The article highlights three serious complications of untreated gonorrhea: pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and potential infertility in women, epididymitis and possible infertility in men, and the rare but life-threatening spread of infection through the bloodstream. Gonorrhea is diagnosed through laboratory testing of urine or swabs, as symptoms often overlap with other STIs.
Treatment with the antibiotic ceftriaxone is highly effective, though adherence to prescribed medication and treating sexual partners are critical to prevent reinfection. Preventive measures include consistent condom use, regular STI testing, and risk reduction strategies such as doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (doxy PEP) for certain populations. The article emphasizes that, despite stigma and discomfort, gonorrhea is common, curable, and largely preventable through informed sexual health practices.