Gonorrhoea

Gonorrhoea is a bacterial infection passed on by unprotected sexual contact. The bacteria can live inside the throat, vagina, cervix, penis and anus.

Symptoms

Symptoms appear 2-10 days after infection and may include:

• pain or stinging when urinating
• abnormal discharge
• sore throat

Females may experience no symptoms – which is why it is important to have regular sexual health checks.

Treatment

• Gonorrhoea can be successfully treated with antibiotics.

Prevention

• Using a condom and/or dental dam will reduce the risk of infection.
• Regular sexual health checks

Note:

If left undiagnosed, Gonorrhoea may lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), which can cause infertility.

This is only a brief overview and should not substitute for professional medical advice. More detailed information is available from the Victorian Department of Human Service Public Health website: http://www.health.vic.gov.au/ideas/bluebook/gonorrhoea