Gonorrhea, also known as the "drip," the "burn,"
or the "clap." is one of the most common sexually transmitted
diseases (STDs) in the United States. In Genesee County, 1,618 cases of
gonorrhea were reported in 1999. Because all cases are not always
reported, the actual number is probably higher.
The bacteria that cause gonorrhea can be transmitted to the throat,
the rectum, the genitals, and even the eyes through sexual activity.
Pregnant women who are infected can transmit gonorrhea to their baby at
birth. Symptoms can vary for different people. Typical symptoms of
gonorrhea include a thick white, yellow or yellowish-green genital
discharge and burning with urination. Women can develop pelvic pain and
irregular periods. Some people may not have symptoms, but are still able
to transmit the infection to partners.
Gonorrhea can be easily diagnosed and treated by a health care
professional. The proper antibiotic medicine must be given, because not
all antibiotics can cure gonorrhea. There is no over-the-counter
medicine that is effective against gonorrhea. If not treated, gonorrhea
can cause serious health problems. In women, it can lead to Pelvic
Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID can lead to ectopic (tubal) pregnancy
and infertility. Men can develop a painful infection of the testicles,
which can cause sterility.
Gonorrhea can be prevented by not having sex or having sex only with
an uninfected partner.
