While the number of reported gonorrhea STD cases is not as prevalent as it once was in years past, gonorrhea is much more prevalent in certain races than others and is still a very serious health concern.

Gonorrhea is still a very common infectious STD. Gonorrhea is caused by bacteria that grows in the warm, moist areas of the reproductive system. It can also be present in the mouth, throat, rectal area and even the eyes. The Center for Disease Control estimates that more than 700,000 people in the USA get new gonorrheal infections every year.

According to findings in a 2008 report, the rate of gonorrhea among African American men and women was found to be over 20 times greater than among white men and women. Latinos and native americans are also disproportionately affected by this STD.

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How Do I Get Gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is spread through sexual contact. Gonorrhea can also be spread from a mother to her baby during delivery.  Any sexually active person can be infected with gonorrhea. It is extremely possible that anyone who has had gonorrhea and received treatment can get infected again if they have sexual contact with an infected partner.

What Are The Symptoms Of Gonorrhea?

Symptoms and signs in men include a burning sensation when urinating, or a white, yellow, or green discharge. Sometimes men with gonorrhea experience painful or testicular discomfort. Symptoms often appear within a few days after the infection, but can take as long a month days to appear.  However, sometimes, men can be infected with gonorrhea and exhibit no symptoms at all. In men, Gonorrhea can cause a painful condition of the ducts attached to the testicles that may also lead to infertility if left untreated.

Many women who are infected may not display any symptoms at all but can lead to infertility. Initial symptoms in women can include a painful or burning sensation when urinating, discharge, or vaginal bleeding between periods.

Symptoms of rectal infection in both men and women may include discharge, itching, soreness, bleeding, or painful bowel movements.
Long Term Effects of Gonorrhea

If left untreated, Gonorrhea can cause serious and permanent health problems in both women and men.  In women, gonorrhea is a common cause of pelvic inflammatory disease. Approximately one million women each year in the USA develop this disease. The symptoms can include severe abdominal pain and fever.  The disease can lead to infertility and chronic pain. Gonorrhea can also spread to the blood or joints. This condition can be life threatening. It's important to know that people with gonorrhea can more easily contract HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. HIV-infected people with gonorrhea can transmit HIV more easily to someone else than if they did not have gonorrhea.treatment to help avoid any undesireable long term efffects. To locate a Gonorrhea testing facility near you, enter your zip code and choose a nearby testing lab.