Gonorrhoea is a highly contagious sexually transmitted infection. It is one of the fastest growing STIs in the world and can be transmitted through unprotected oral, vaginal, or anal sexual contact. The infection can make women infertile, and may cause pelvic inflammatory disease if left untreated. In men, Gonorrhoea can result in the swelling or inflammation of the testicles and the prostate.
How is Gonorrhoea transmitted?
Unprotected sexual activity carries an elevated risk of contracting Gonorrhoea. The infection can live in the testes, penis and semen of men, and the vagina of women. It can also reside in the throat, rectum, and genital tract of both men and women.
How will I know if I have Gonorrhoea?
Many people with a Gonorrhoea infection have little or no symptoms in the first few weeks. When they do occur, symptoms usually begin between 5 and 30 days after exposure. Symptoms can differ between men and women, but may include painful bowel movements, pain or burning upon urination, or sore throat, depending on the location of the infection. For women, vaginal bleeding may occur, as well as unusual discharge from the vagina, while men can also experience inflamed or swollen testicles.
What tests are available for Gonorrhoea?
Gonorrhoea can be tested for with a urine sample or a swab. Gonorrhoea is a localised infection, so a urine test will not identify a throat infection. A genital infection can be tested for with a urine or swab sample for both men and women. You may also want to have a throat or rectal swab, depending on where the infection may be located. As well as testing for the infection individually, Better2Know also provides a selection of private screens, combining tests for several harmful STIs. This includes the Full Screen, the Platinum and Early Platinum Screen, and the Comfort Screen, amongst others.
How is the infection treated?
If you test positive for Gonorrhoea, your doctor will discuss your results with you and can administer a prescription for the required treatment to cure the infection. In most cases, treatment involves having a single antibiotic injection followed by one antibiotic tablet. It is sometimes possible to have another antibiotic tablet instead of an injection, if you prefer.
You should refrain from any sexual intercourse until you have finished your treatment. As some Gonorrhoea infections are resistant to antibiotics, it is important to have a test of cure two weeks after you have finished your medication. This will ensure that your infection has cleared completely.
It is important to notify any previous partners about your result to protect their health and prevent becoming re-infected. You can do so using Better2Know’s anonymous notification system in your secure patient area.
How can I book my test with Better2Know?
Call Better2Know today on the phone number above to speak to a member of our friendly Patient Services team. Our experienced staff will answer your questions and process your booking. Alternatively, you can arrange your appointment online by selecting the Book Now button at the top of the page.