New figures from the UK Health Security Agency have revealed gonorrhoea and syphilis cases are at an all-time high throughout the UK. With summer on the horizon, the absence of proper education on these common STIs could see cases rise even further, a doctor has warned. Dr Donald Grant, a GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy , has shared his expertise on these two sexually transmitted infections, revealing the symptoms to look out for.
Gonorrhoea Dr Grant said: “After chlamydia, gonorrhoea (also known as ‘the clap’) is the second most transmitted STI in the UK. Therefore, it’s vital to understand the symptoms of the infection and how to receive treatment. “This STI can be spread through several ways, including unsafe sex, sharing sex toys or genitals coming into contact with an infected person’s genital area.
It’s important to note that this infection cannot be passed through casual contact such as kissing or sharing a towel. “For men, symptoms of gonorrhoea include a burning sensation while urinating, inflamed foreskin and white, yellow or green discharge from the penis. Additionally, women suffering from the infection will experience symptoms such as heavier periods, thick green or yellow vaginal discharge, lower abdominal pain and a similar burning sensation during urination.
“If you believe you are suffering from gonorrhoea, it’s crucial to get tested. A Gonorrhoea Test Kit requires you to submit a urine sample for further evaluat.
