Gonorrhea is an easily transmitted bacterial sexually transmitted infection that can cause thick, white or green discharge from the penis or vagina. It can be misdiagnosed in women and can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. Proper diagnosis and treatment are important.
Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection that can affect both men and women. While not always symptomatic, one of the most common signs of the condition is gonorrhea discharge, which looks like a thick white or green liquid oozing from the penis or vagina. The discharge and underlying infection are easy to misdiagnose, especially in women, but can usually be treated quickly and effectively when discovered.
The infection is caused by a bacterial infection that is easily transmitted through sexual fluids and by contact. Symptoms, including gonorrhea, usually appear within a week or two of exposure, but may not always occur. One of the most common STDs in existence, it is also quite responsive to treatment. It is possible to be reinfected, however, if exposure continues or recurs.
The discharge from gonorrhea can have a different appearance or texture. It is often yellow, green or white and can be a combination of these colors. The discharge is usually thick and has a creamy or lumpy texture. It may be itchy or have a strong odor, although this is not true in all cases.
Gonorrhea-related discharge is more common in men; women are less likely to show symptoms and can easily mistake the discharge for a yeast infection or normal discharge. This can slow down the diagnosis of many women with gonorrhea, as many women self-treat their yeast infections with over-the-counter medications. Proper diagnosis is important, as untreated infection can lead to serious health problems, including serious infections and infertility.
Although gonorrhea discharge is one of the most common symptoms of the infection, there are other symptoms to look out for, especially if the discharge is present. Urination may be painful and the frequency or urgency may increase. Sex can become extremely painful for both men and women. The genital areas may become itchy or swollen. Combined with discharge, these symptoms make a diagnosis more likely.
It is important to maintain good hygiene if a gonorrhea discharge occurs. Wash all clothing thoroughly and with soap and try to keep the genital area clean and dry. The chances of transmission can be reduced by using barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms, although these do not offer foolproof protection. To stop the discharge of gonorrhea as soon as possible, it is important to visit a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Once treated, the infection usually does not come back unless the patient is exposed to the bacteria again.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN