Gonorrhea

What is gonorrhea?  

Gonorrhea is a bacterial STD that can cause severe infections in the genital areas, rectum, and throat. It is a very common infection in the United States among young people, 15 to 24 years of age but anyone can become infected. Gonorrhea can cause serious, permanent damage to a female’s reproductive system. In males, gonorrhea can spread to other glands and cause permanent scarring of the urethra and/or epididymis, often resulting in difficulty urinating and infertility. Gonorrhea is very similar to chlamydia and many people have both infections simultaneously. All sexually active persons should be tested for gonorrhea and other STDs at least once a year.

How is gonorrhea spread?  

Gonorrhea is spread by having anal, vaginal, or oral sex with someone who has gonorrhea. A pregnant woman can also pass the infection along to her child during childbirth. You can be re-infected with gonorrhea even if you have been treated before.

What are the symptoms of Gonorrhea?  

Men. Some men with gonorrhea may have no symptoms at all. Men with gonorrhea are at higher risk for contracting HIV. Male symptoms may include:
• Burning sensation when urinating
• White, yellow, or green discharge from the penis
• Painful or swollen testicles (this is less common)

Women. Most women with gonorrhea do not have any symptoms. Even when a woman has symptoms, they are often mild and can be mistaken for a bladder or vaginal infection. Women with gonorrhea are at risk of developing serious complications from the infection, even if they don’t have any symptoms.
Female symptoms may include:
• Painful or burning sensation when urinating
• Increased vaginal discharge
• Vaginal bleeding between periods

Men and Women. Rectal infections may either cause no symptoms or cause symptoms in both men and women that may include:
• Discharge
• Anal itching
• Soreness
• Bleeding
• Painful bowel movements

You should contact your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms or if your partner has an STD or symptoms of an STD, such as unusual sore, a smelly discharge, burning when urinating, or bleeding between periods.

How can I protect myself from getting gonorrhea?  

• Abstain from sex
• Have an exclusive relationship with one sexual partner who has tested negative for STDs
• Use latex condoms and water-based lubricants during all sexual activities
• Get tested for STDs at least once a year or before sexual encounters with new partners
• Talk with your partner(s) openly about sexual health practices and STD testing
• Know the signs and symptoms of STDs

Additional Resources 

CDC: Gonorrhea

Location & Contact Information 

Fairfield Service Center
1295 West Fairfield Drive

The STD office is open:
Monday-Thursday from 8 AM to 5 PM
Fridays from 7:30 AM to 1:30 PM

Call 850-595-6500, Option 1 to schedule an appointment or for more information.