Signs and Symptoms (Infected persons may NOT recognize symptoms, but can still transmit disease)*
- Usually none.
- Painful urination
- Foul discharge (pus) from genitalia
Transmission*
- By exchange of infected body fluids (semen, vaginal fluid) during sexual activity.
- Can pass to infant during childbirth
Condom Effectiveness**(assuming consistent condom use)
Studies show that there is demonstrated effectiveness of condoms for MALES, there are no accurate conclusions about the amount of protection for women.**
Quote from National Institute for Health Summary
Several of the available studies on effectiveness demonstrated a protective effect of condoms for men. The available epidemiologic literature does not allow an accurate assessment of the degree of protection against gonorrhea in women offered by correct and consistent condom use.
Long Term Effects*
- Can cause pelvic inflammatory disease
- Increased risk of tubal pregnancies
- 15% likelihood of infertility after 1 incident of PID and, rises to 75% after 3 episodes of PID
- Serious eye infections in infants
Viral or Bacterial
Bacterial (curable with antibiotics)
*Adapted from SAGE Advice Council, Inc.
**NIH Scientific Evidence on Condom Effectiveness for Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) Prevention June 2000
Testing is recommended for anyone who is sexually active or who has had sexual contact with another person outside of a mutually monogamous relationship. Seek STD testing from your local physician, nurse practitioner, health-care provider, or health clinic. |
