Among sexually transmitted infections, gonorrhoea is a common, troublesome variation that typically affects women. The infection, also colloquially known as “the clap” in some regions, is notorious for causing discomfort. Unfortunately, doctors in the United Kingdom have now discovered a “superbug” version of gonorrhoea. This new strain is particularly vicious and powerful, and it’s extremely hard to eliminate from the body.

A Few Facts About Gonorrhoea

The regular strain of gonorrhoea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It usually thrives in the moist, warm areas of the body, specifically the uterus, cervix, urethra, or fallopian tubes in women, although it can also be present in the anus, mouth, or throat. Sexually active men or women under the age of 25 are most at risk.

The Defense Against Gonorrhoea

Usually, gonorrhoea can be eradicated with the use of antibiotics. However, certain strains of the STI have become increasingly resistant to antibiotics over the years. Right now, there is only one antibiotic that remains truly effective against the strongest strain of the infection. Eventually, that antibiotic too may fail, rendering “super-gonorrhoea” untreatable.

A New Outbreak in the United Kingdom

In 2015, England had nearly 35,000 cases of regular gonorrhoea. However, in September of 2015, fifteen people in the North of England were diagnosed with super-gonorrhoea. Public Health England is working hard to contain the spread of the super-gonorrhoea outbreak, but with little success. In fact, the issue of antibiotic-resistant infections is becoming a global concern. That’s why Shim Clinic, an STD clinic in Singapore, is so vital to the overall health of Singaporean society. Early identification of these types of infections using effective STD testing is the key to slowing the spread of tough “superbugs.”

The Symptoms of Gonorrhoea

In women, gonorrhoea infection can cause pain or burning during urination, some abdominal discomfort or pain, bleeding between the usual monthly cycles, or bleeding after sex. Many women with gonorrhoea notice odd vaginal discharge that is greenish or yellowish. For men, urination may be painful, and the penis may exude a white, yellow, or green discharge. Pain, inflammation, or tenderness of the genitals sometimes occurs as well. If oral sex is involved in the transmission of gonorrhoea, men or women may experience swollen glands in the throat or a burning sensation in the throat. Consider all of those potential symptoms, and you get an idea of just how painful and embarrassing the infection can be. It significantly reduces the sufferer’s quality of life, and if it is left unchecked, it can get much worse.

Testing and Treatment for Gonorrhoea

If you suspect that you may have gonorrhoea, visit Shim Clinic as soon as possible. There, you can have all the necessary STD testing done to help you identify what may be causing your symptoms. The doctor or technician will use a swab to collect a sample from the affected area. Once the lab examines the sample, you’ll be notified of the presence or absence of the bacteria. If you do have gonorrhoea or another STI, you will need to take an antibiotic via injection or oral dosage.

Here at Shim Clinic, we maintain complete confidentiality and privacy for our patients. You can trust that you’ll receive excellent professional care on your journey back to full health.