Gonorrhea: Risks, Treatment, and Partner Care - Urology

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Gonorrhea, caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can affect both men and women. Understanding the risks, treatment options, and partner care is crucial for managing this infection effectively.


Risks of Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Engaging in unprotected sex with an infected partner significantly increases the risk of transmission. In your case, since you were diagnosed with gonorrhea after having unprotected sex, it is important to consider that your partner may also be at risk, especially since you engaged in oral sex shortly after your diagnosis.


Treatment for Gonorrhea
The standard treatment for gonorrhea typically involves antibiotics. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a dual therapy approach, which usually includes:
1. Ceftriaxone: An injectable antibiotic that is effective against gonorrhea.

2. Azithromycin: An oral antibiotic that is often given in conjunction with ceftriaxone to combat potential co-infections and reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.

It is essential to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if symptoms resolve before finishing the medication.


Partner Care
Since gonorrhea is highly contagious, it is crucial for your partner to get tested and treated as well. Even if your partner does not exhibit symptoms, they could still be infected and capable of transmitting the infection to others. It is recommended that both you and your partner abstain from sexual activity until both have completed treatment and have been cleared of the infection.


Oral Transmission
Regarding your concern about oral sex and the potential for transmitting gonorrhea to the mouth, it is indeed possible. Gonorrhea can infect the throat (pharyngeal gonorrhea), which may not always present noticeable symptoms. If your girlfriend has engaged in oral sex with you after your exposure, she should also seek medical evaluation and testing for gonorrhea, even if she does not have symptoms.

Follow-Up and Prevention
After treatment, it is advisable to have a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider to ensure that the infection has been cleared. Additionally, practicing safe sex in the future—such as using condoms—can significantly reduce the risk of contracting or transmitting STIs.


Conclusion
In summary, it is vital for both you and your girlfriend to seek medical attention promptly. Gonorrhea is treatable, but both partners must be involved in the treatment process to prevent reinfection and further spread of the disease. Open communication with your partner about sexual health and safe practices is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship. If you have any further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.