Virtually every activity in life is susceptible to some risk and engaging in sex is no exception. There are diseases, commonly known as STDs, that can be transmitted through sexual intercourse. If you are sensible enough to take the precaution of using a condom, that will greatly diminish the risk. Fortunately most common STDs are bacterial or similar infections that are not too difficult to treat. If you suspect you might have an infection, you should get tested straightaway because the sooner treatment is started, the quicker the problem can be cleared up.
Some cases of sexually transmitted diseases seem to cause virtually no symptoms at all and the infection may not be recognized, although you could still pass it on to another person. That is why the use of condoms during sex is recommended and why also regular STI screening is a good idea for those who may have changed partners.
Gonorrhea is a relatively common STD and is a bacterial infection of the genital tract, and gonorrhea symptoms can appear within days or can sometimes take months before they are noticeable. Some people do not get symptoms at all. A common problem gonorrhea causes is painful urination, often with a burning sensation, in both men and women. Men may suffer an abnormal discharge from the penis which may be clear, milky white, or yellowish, and can also suffer painful, swollen testicles and anal itching. Women too can have a discharge plus swollen glands around the vaginal entrance, genital itching, and sometimes menstrual disturbance, lower abdominal pain, and a fever with general tiredness. Both sexes find an increased urge to urinate more often. (more...)



