"The clap" is a common, informal term for gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Gonorrhea is caused by bacteria (Neisseria gonorrhoeae) that can infect the mucous membranes of the:
- Throat
- Anus
- Urethra (in men)
- Cervix (in women)
- Eyes
Symptoms of Gonorrhea
Symptoms can vary, and some people may not experience any symptoms at all. However, common symptoms include:
- In men:
- Unusual discharge from the penis (may be white, yellow, or green)
- Pain or burning sensation during urination
- Pain or swelling in one testicle
- In women:
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Pain or burning sensation during urination
- Vaginal bleeding between periods
- Abdominal or pelvic pain
- Other:
- Sore throat (if the infection is in the throat)
- Conjunctivitis (red, itchy eyes) if the eyes are infected
- Anal itching, soreness, bleeding, or discharge (if the infection is in the anus)
Complications of Untreated Gonorrhea
If left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to serious health problems, including:
- In women: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility.
- In men: Epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis), which can cause infertility.
- In both men and women: Increased risk of HIV infection, disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI), which can affect the joints, skin, and heart.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Gonorrhea is diagnosed through laboratory tests, such as urine tests or swabs taken from the affected areas. Treatment involves antibiotics. It's crucial to take all prescribed medication and to inform sexual partners so they can be tested and treated as well. Follow-up testing is often recommended to ensure the infection is cleared.
Prevention
- Use condoms consistently and correctly during sexual activity.
- Get tested regularly for STIs, especially if you have multiple partners.
- Talk to your partner(s) about their sexual history and STI status.
- Limit your number of sexual partners.
