SYPHILIS DISEASE (STI)

Introduction

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections, which can be transmitted from one person to another through sexual intercourse. These include HIV/AIDS, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, Candidiasis, genital herpes and many others. Gonorrhea is caused by a bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhea. The bacteria can survive in the vagina, penis, mouth, rectum, or eye. Anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea. Gonorrhea can cause very serious complications when not treated, but can be cured with the right medication.

Signs and Symptoms of gonorrhea

Symptoms of gonorrhea may occur between 2 to 10 days after initial infection, in some cases, it may take 30 days. Some people experience very mild or no symptoms at all.

Males may experience the following symptoms:

• burning sensation during urination
• testicular pain or swelling
• a green, white, or yellow (pus or amfina) discharge from the penis

Females are less likely to show symptoms, but if they do, these may include:

• bleeding after sexual intercourse
• swelling of the vulva,
• irregular bleeding between periods
• pink eye, or conjunctivitis
• pain in the pelvic area
• burning or pain during urination

If the rectum becomes infected, a person with gonorrhea may experience anal itching, painful bowel movements, and sometimes discharge. When transmission occurs as a result of oral sex, there may be a burning sensation in the throat and swollen glands.

Prevention

If you’ve had gonorrhea and took medicine in the past, you can still get infected again if you have unprotected sex with a person who has gonorrhea. Here are other steps you can take to reduce the risk of an STIs:

• Abstinence: Abstaining from any sexual act is the most effective way to avoid an STD.
• Be faithful to one partner: A long-term, relationship with one person who is not infected can reduce the risk of contracting an STIs.
• Check for infections: Before sexual intercourse with a new partner, check that the partner and yourself have no STIs.
• Use Condoms: Use a condom correctly, every time you have sex. Sex using a condom is safer than having unprotected sex. For each oral, vaginal, or anal sex act, use a new latex condom.
• Drink alcohol in moderation: People who have consumed too much alcohol are more likely to engage in risky behavior. Avoid using recreational drugs, which may also affect judgment.
• Explain you want safe sex: Before engaging in any sexual act with a new partner, communicate that you would only consider safe sex.

Treatment:  Seek early medical attention from the nearest Clinic or Hospital immediately.  

Take a responsible approach to getting intimate with another person and it could protect you from a range of health problems

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