What is Gonorrhea?

• Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection that can affect the penis, vagina, rectum, eyes and/or throat. Gonorrhea is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the United States.

• Although it is non-fatal and curable, certain strains can be resistant to treatment. 

• Not all people develop symptoms, and even those who are asymptomatic can still be infectious. 

• Symptoms typically develop within 2-14 days after exposure. In those with penises symptoms can include: a burning sensation when urinating, a white/yellow/green discharge from the penis, sore throat, and in some less common cases, swelling and/or discomfort in the testicles. In those with vaginas, symptoms can include: painful urination, increased vaginal discharge, sore throat, and bleeding in between periods.

What are the risks associated with Gonorrhea?

• It is transmitted via barrierless oral, anal or vaginalsex via semen, pre-cum and/or vaginal fluids.

• Without treatment, permanent damage can occur up to and including, damage to the fallopian tubes, ectopic pregnancy, abdominal pain and/or infertility.

• Sex acts involving barrierless contact between genitals, oral sex, and/or anal sex can lead to exposure to gonorrhea.

• This bacteria needs very specific conditions to survive and as such does not survive for more than a few seconds to minutes outside of the body. 

How can transmission of Gonorrhea be prevented?

• Transmission can be prevented through testing. You can only contract Gonorrhea if someone else has it. Make sure to always check your scene partners availability in the PASS system to reduce the risk of being exposed to Gonorrhea and other STIs.

• Testing for Gonorrhea involves urine specimens, swabs of the throat, vagina and rectum. Gonorrhea bacteria are localized at the site of infection, not testing all sites of possible exposure can miss cases of the infection.

• Condoms and other barriers can only reduce the risk of exposure in the areas that they cover.

What treatments are available for those who have contracted Gonorrhea?

• Gonorrhea is treated with antibiotics, but one must follow the exact dosage and treatment protocols for treatment to be effective. In some cases, antibiotic resistant strains of gonorrhea have been observed, which is why retesting post treatment may be recommended. Through treatment, gonorrhea can be cured. It is also recommended not to engage in sexual activity until seven days after completing treatment.

• There is currently no vaccine for gonorrhea. 

More resources:

• The CDC has information related to Gonorrhea, prevention methods, and access to treatment. 

• Planned Parenthood can direct you to information surrounding Gonorrhea prevention. 

• Full panel STI testing and treatment is available at the Los Angeles LGBT Center. Regardless of your ability to pay, the Los Angeles LGBT Center provides a sex-positive, sex worker safe clinic.