Gonorrhea

Sedgwick County > Health Department > Fast Facts for Health > Gonorrhea

What is Gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a bacterial STD (sexually transmitted disease) that, if untreated can damage the reproductive organs in both males and females. The bacterium grows best in warm moist environments: the cervix, uterus, or fallopian tubes in women. The bacterium grows best in the urethra in men but has the ability to grow and live in the anus, eyes, and throat of anyone.

What are the signs and symptoms of Gonorrhea?

Generally, gonorrhea is an asymptomatic disease (does not have signs or symptoms). If symptoms do appear, they may show up from 2 to 21 days after having sex with an infected person.

Symptoms may include yellow or greenish discharge from the penis, burning or pain when urinating, urinating more frequently, or swollen or tender testicles. Both men and women might experience rectal pain and blood or pus in bowel movements, sore or red throat, yellow or greenish discharge from eyes. Women may experience yellow or gray discharge from the vagina, burning or pain when urinating, urinating more often, bleeding between periods or after sex, heavier and more painful periods, cramping or pain in lower abdominal area, fever or nausea. Pregnant females can give gonorrhea to unborn babies. During childbirth, the baby may have eye infections and pneumonia.

How is gonorrhea diagnosed?

Gonorrhea is diagnosed by laboratory test only. Some tests involve getting a sample from an infected site (cervix, penis, throat, eyes). A urine test can also tell if you have the bacteria in the genital area. A physical test will not reveal gonorrhea.

Where can you be tested?

Your health care provider can test you or you can get tested at the Sedgwick County Health Department, 2716 W Central, Wichita, Ks 67203. Hours of operation are Monday, Tuesday, and Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm; Wednesday 10:00 am to 7:00 pm; Thursday 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Please call 660-7300 for appointment.

How can you prevent gonorrhea?

Only have sex with one uninfected partner who only has sex with you.
Use latex condoms (correctly) with water based lubricant every time you have sex.
Get checked regularly.
Don’t use drugs or alcohol when you might have sex.