Gonorrhoea

Common STI in young people and MSMs

about

What is Gonorrhoea?

Gonorrhoea is a bacterium and causes a sexually transmitted infection (STI), it is also known as the ‘clap’ or ‘drip’. It is a 3rd most common STI in men and women, but is particularly problematically in MSMs. It can cause infections in the genitals, anus and throat.

  • is it
    treatable?

    Yes, Gonorrhoea can be treated by a single dose of an appropriate antibiotic which is usually given by injection into the buttock.

  • is it
    contagious?

    Yes, Gonorrhoea is contagious and can be transferred to you or partner through:

    • close genital contact
    • unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex
    • from a pregnant mother to baby

  • who does it
    affect?

    Gonorrhoea can be asymptomatic this means that you may not experience any symptoms but when symptoms do occur they usually occur 1-2 weeks after contact. It affects both women and men.

  • common in
    Ireland?

    Gonorrhoea is a very commonly diagnosed STI in Ireland especially in the 15-24 age group and particularly in men who have sex with men (MSM).

What is the test
for Gonorrhoea?

Testing for this infection requires a sample of bodily fluid or urine. The sample is collected from the area of the body most likely infected (vagina, anus, mouth).

Where can I
get this done?

Gonorrhoea tests can be performed at a STI clinic, GP clinic or using a home test kit.

What are the
symptoms?

Gonorrhoea can be asymptomatic. This means that you may not experience any symptoms. But when symptoms do occur they usually occur 1-2 weeks after contact and can include:

Female

Abnormal vaginal discharge (yellowish/green-white discharge)
Irritation of the vagina
Stinging or burning sensation while you pass urine
Redness or soreness in the throat
Eye infections
Stomach pains

Male

Yellowish/green-white discharge from the penis
Stinging or burning sensation when you pass urine

How is it
treated?

Gonorrhoea can be treated by a single dose of an appropriate antibiotic which is usually given by injection into the buttock

Other STIs

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted infection in Ireland

Gonorrhoea

Also known as the ‘clap’ or ‘drip’ it's a very common infection in both men and women and can cause infections in the genitals, anus and/or throat.

Herpes

Genital Herpes or just ‘herpes’ is caused by a virus and can cause painful blisters on the genitals and surrounding area.

HIV

HIV is a virus called The Human Immunodeficiency Virus that causes HIV infection and over time AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome)

HPV (Genital Warts)

Genital warts are skin growths and can cause a lot of pain, itching and discomfort.

Syphilis

It is a bacteria passed via direct contact with a syphilis sore. Sores usually occur in the mouth, vagina, anus, rectum or external genitalia.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A highly contagious infection caused by Hepatitis A virus (HAV). It affects the liver and blood, it is the most common type of viral hepatitis.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B highly contagious infection caused by Hepatitis B virus (HBV). It affects the liver and can result in an acute and severe sudden illness. It can be fatal if it isn’t treated!

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C highly contagious infection caused by Hepatitis C virus (HCV). It affects the liver and can result in an acute and severe sudden illness. There is currently no vaccine to prevent Hepatitis C.