Infectious truths: The reality of gonorrhoea

When I first began learning about gonorrhoea, I was surprised by its misconceptions. My friend, who has first-hand experience with the infection, opened my eyes to the realities of this STI and the challenges that come with it. Like many, I initially thought gonorrhoea was serious and something to be ashamed of. However, the more I educated myself, the clearer it became that gonorrhoea is a common condition faced by many.

Gonorrhoea is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae and is transmitted primarily through sexual contact. It can affect various body parts, including the genital tract, throat, and rectum. In the UK, gonorrhoea cases have seen a staggering 50% increase since 2021, with approximately 392,453 STIs reported in England in 2022, reflecting a 24% rise from the previous year. This shows that many people live with this condition, yet stigma often leads to silence and misinformation.

Symptoms of gonorrhoea vary between individuals, with many people, particularly women, being asymptomatic. When symptoms do appear, they can include pain during urination, abnormal genital discharge, or, in men, swelling in one testicle. Rectal infections may cause itching or discomfort, while throat infections are often asymptomatic. Without treatment, gonorrhoea can lead to severe complications like pelvic inflammatory disease in women or infertility in both men and women.

My friend's experience with gonorrhoea was a wake-up call for me. She initially felt embarrassed but sought medical help and was treated successfully. Through her journey, I learned that gonorrhoea is treatable with antibiotics, and with early detection, it doesn’t have to lead to severe complications. The key is to be proactive—regular testing and open conversations with partners are essential.

One of the most significant hurdles my friend faced was the stigma attached to STIs. Many are hesitant to talk about gonorrhoea due to fear of judgment. My friend hopes to break down barriers and encourage others to seek help without shame by sharing her story. At Newcastle University, free sexual health services provide STI testing and support, helping to normalise conversations around sexual health.

Understanding gonorrhoea has empowered me to support my friend and advocate for a more open dialogue about sexual health. It’s essential to remember that having an STI doesn’t define who you are. With knowledge, support, and the right mindset, leading a healthy and fulfilling life is possible.

As we continue to break down the stigma surrounding STIs, we create an environment where everyone feels comfortable seeking help and talking about their experiences. It’s time to shift the narrative from shame to understanding, ensuring that we all prioritise our sexual health and well-being.