Receiving gonorrhoea treatment

Although gonorrhoea infection rates are on the rise, this may be due to more people having the test. Gonorrhoea treatment has improved and is now a simple process, requiring either a single dose of antibiotics or an antibiotic injection. Whichever method is used, the treatment is effective in around 95% of cases, as long as it has been caught early enough.

However, if it has been left untreated for some time, complications can arise and the patient may need a longer course of treatment.

Often, patients with gonorrhoea are also found to have Chlamydia: about one third of those who test positive for gonorrhoea also test positive for Chlamydia. This is why many clinics offer treatment for both diseases together.

In fact, this is why it’s a good idea to book a full sexual health test if you think you may have gonorrhoea – it’s not uncommon to have more than one STI. A full check-up gives peace of mind, and also ensures that treatment starts as soon as possible should any problems be found.

If you are given antibiotics for a gonorrhoea infection, there are some things which may alter the effectiveness of the treatment. You should inform your doctor if, for example, you are pregnant as this may change the type of antibiotics that you are prescribed.

Similarly, if the effectiveness of the contraceptive patch or combined contraceptive pill can be reduced. Staff at the clinic can offer advice on how to ensure that you remain fully protected from pregnancy at this time.

The availability of quick and confidential testing, along with simple, effective Gonorrhoea treatment, means that there no reason to put off having a sexual health test.

Gonorrhoea treatment: http://www.chelwest.nhs.uk/hiv-sexual-health/gonorrhoea-treatment.html