Sexually transmitted diseases are on the rise globally, with millions of people annually suffering from an STD. According to recent studies, over 1 million STDs are transmitted daily.

The most common STD globally is chlamydia, with over 131 million new cases of the sexually transmitted disease each year. However, there is a close second that many people may not be aware they’ve contracted. This article delves into the second most common sexually transmitted disease.

What is the second most common STD?

The second most common STD is Gonorrhea. According to the World Health Organization, over 87 million people globally contract gonorrhea every year.

What is Gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease that is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The disease is spread through vaginal, anal and oral sex with someone who has the infection.

The bacteria thrive in warm and moist areas of the body, including the vagina, urethra, rectum, and throat. Gonorrhea is highly contagious, and someone with the infection can easily spread the bacteria to their partner(s).

Symptoms of Gonorrhea

Many people with gonorrhea do not experience symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose and spread the disease. However, when symptoms do occur, they usually show up within two to fourteen days after exposure. Common symptoms of gonorrhea include:.

Painful urination
Inflammation (swelling) of the urethra in men
Yellow or bloody vaginal discharge in women
Rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding in individuals who engage in anal sex
Soreness or irritation of the throat in individuals who engage in oral sex with someone who has gonorrhea

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing gonorrhea is done through a test that involves taking a sample of body fluids from the affected area, such as urine. Once a person is diagnosed with gonorrhea, treatment is almost necessary.

Gonorrhea can be treated with antibiotics, depending on how severe the infection is and how long the individual has had the disease. Penicillin was the recommended treatment for gonorrhea in the past – but the bacteria have grown to resist the drug.

The Importance of Safe Sex

Any sexually transmitted disease can be avoided by practicing safe sex. Safe sex can include using a condom for vaginal or anal sex or a dental dam for oral sex.

A dental dam is a sheet of rubber that can be used for oral-genital stimulation to protect against sexually transmitted diseases. It is important to make sure that potential sexual partners are tested before engaging in any sexual activity with them. This is even more important when both parties have more than one partner.

Using protection, asking questions, and getting tested regularly is important not only for an individual’s well-being but also to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.

Conclusion

Gonorrhea is a highly contagious disease that many people do not take seriously until they end up contracting it. Practicing safe sex and getting tested routinely are critical to stop the spread of gonorrhea and other sexually transmitted diseases.

Being honest with oneself and the healthcare provider is essential to get timely treatment and recover from the infection.