Yellow discharge, slight redness and some itching are symptoms that cause mild discomfort, but indicate gonorrhea. Go to the doctor immediately! These signs should be taken seriously. If untreated, there is a risk of developing irreversible infertility.
The prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases is increasing
As the current government report shows, the number of sexually transmitted diseases in Russia has increased significantly in recent decades. More and more people suffer from syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhea.
An increase in the prevalence of gonococcal infections is a matter of concern, as more bacteria are appearing that are not responding to antibiotics. Scientists fear that in the near future gonorrhea will not respond well to therapy.
Sexually transmitted gonorrhea can lead to infertility. This is indicated by a professional association of gynecologists in a recent report.
According to experts, the first symptoms in women are usually harmless:
- increased discharge;
- unpleasant odor;
- slight redness;
- itching
The partner must know about the disease
Any woman diagnosing such symptoms should contact a gynecologist as soon as possible to do the test. The same is true for women without symptoms whose partners show signs of gonococcal infection.
The main symptoms in men are strong discharge from the urethra and burning sensation during urination. If an infection is detected, the doctor usually prescribes antibiotics.
As mentioned at the beginning, the disease cannot be successfully cured in all cases. All sexual partners in the last 3 months should be informed and examined for gonococcal infection.
What is the danger of gonorrhea?
Gonococci, the causative agents of gonorrhea, are almost always sexually transmitted. The risk of transmission from man to woman is higher than vice versa.
Oral or anorectal intercourse also causes throat or rectal infections. If the mother is infected, the newborn develops eye damage. In 10-20% of women, the infection spreads over the uterus and fallopian tubes, which causes inflammation in the pelvis.
Men may develop epididymitis - inflammation of the epididymis. When gonococci enters the bloodstream, inflammation of the skin, vagina, joints, heart, dura mater and liver occurs.
How to prevent gonorrhea?
Sexually transmitted diseases can be 100% prevented if you completely refrain from sexual intercourse. Regular but not exaggerated intimate hygiene reduces the risk of infection. In the external genital area, it is recommended to wash only with water or soap with a neutral pH.
In case of skin changes, itching or burning in the genital area, it is recommended to consult a doctor. During this time, unprotected intercourse should be avoided so as not to infect the partner.
Some viral infections that are transmitted, particularly during sex, can also be prevented with vaccination. An HPV vaccine is recommended, which significantly reduces the risk of cervical cancer.
The easiest and most important way to prevent sexually transmitted diseases is to use condoms. The female condom also protects against sexually transmitted infections.
It is recommended to use condoms bearing the CE mark (quality characteristic) and valid expiration date. To prevent condom rupture, it is recommended that you use a lubricant.
Condoms significantly reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases, but cannot exclude them by 100%. This is because some sexually transmitted diseases are transmitted through close contact with the skin. Infectious skin changes - herpes, syphilis or genital warts - are found in areas of the body that are not protected by latex.
Doctors recommend a vaccine for all patients at high risk of infection. With frequently changing sexual partners and homosexual relationships, continuous vaccination is recommended.
Be carefull! Gonorrhea does not sleep!
