Getting tested for STDs is the best way to be responsible when you are sexually active. Protecting yourself is vital to avoid infection, but there are times when women may visit the team at GYN Choices with concerns that an STD or STI is present. GYN Choices is here to help East Brunswick, NJ patients undergo screenings as needed, and encourage women to take control of their sexual health and wellness with regular testing if they are sexually active. With STD testing, women can find out if they have conditions such as gonorrhea.
What is gonorrhea?
Gonorrhea is one of many sexually transmitted infections that can be spread from person to person with sexual contact. This condition can impact both men and women, infecting areas such as the cervix, urethra, anus, rectum, and throat. I tis one of the most common STDs but is easily treated and cured. However, STD testing may need to be completed to confirm the diagnosis and discuss treatment options.
What are the symptoms of gonorrhea?
Some patients may not have symptoms at all, or may experience other issues that are related, such as bladder infections. Others may notice problems such as irritation or discharge from the anus or genitals, burning sensations when urinating, or in women, a vaginal discharge that changes to a yellow or green color with a foul odor. If any of these symptoms are noticed, patients are strongly encouraged to visit a medical professional for an STD test to get a proper diagnosis and discuss treatment.
How is gonorrhea treated?
Once gonorrhea has been diagnosed, patients need to treat the condition to keep from experiencing more serious health issues. The best treatment for gonorrhea is antibiotics prescribed by the doctor.
What happens if gonorrhea goes undetected and untreated?
If individuals do not get a proper diagnosis of their condition and do not seek treatment, they are at risk of developing further health issues including:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Meningitis
- Septicemia
- Infertility
Are you concerned that you have gonorrhea?
If you have the symptoms of gonorrhea or have recently had intercourse with an individual that has been diagnosed, it is vital that you undergo sexually transmitted disease testing and screening with the team at GYN Choices. We are here to help patients in and around the area of East Brunswick, NJ with their reproductive health concerns.