GONORRHOEA?

Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhoeae or gonococcus. Gonorrhoea is passed on through unprotected sex (sex without a condom) or by sharing sex toys. Safer sex is the best way to prevent gonorrhoea. This means using a condom every time you have sex (vaginal, anal or oral). Gonorrhoea symptoms normally appear within 10 days of infection but they can occur many months later. Roughly 10% of men and 50% of women will not experience any symptoms at all. Treatment for gonorrhoea consists of a short course of antibiotics. It normally involves an antibiotic injection (in the buttocks or thigh) and a single dose of antibiotic tablet.

BEING SAFE AND SURE

Oral sex is not necessarily a safer alternative to sexual intercourse, although you cannot get pregnant from oral sex. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as herpes, gonorrhea and syphilis can still be passed on, so using a condom or dental dam (a thin, soft plastic that covers the vagina) is still important. Although it carries a very low risk, HIV transmission is also possible from oral sex. This could happen if the person receiving oral sex has an STI or sores on their genital area, or if the person giving oral sex has sores in their mouth or bleeding gums.

HIV, OTHER HEALTH CONDITIONS AND OPPORTUNISTIC INFECTIONS

When you are first diagnosed with HIV, it is likely that it will be your main health concern for a while. You need time to learn about it and how best to manage it. But, having HIV is only one part of a bigger picture, and thinking about other aspects of your health is important too.

HOW TO HAVE SEX

Some people like to be in a relationship for a while before they think about having sex. They want to get to know their partner properly to feel comfortable enough to be intimate with them, while some people wait until they are married before they have sex. The most important thing to remember is to use a condom. Many people say that they can enjoy sex more if they know they are being safe.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF A CONDOM BREAKS AND MY PARTNER IS HIV-POSITIVE?

If a condom breaks and you know you are having sex with someone who is living with HIV or who doesn't know their HIV status, you will need to visit a sexual health professional as soon as you can. You may be offered post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) treatment. This is a month-long treatment of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) that can reduce your chances of becoming HIV-positive.

WHEN DO YOU NEED TO USE A CONDOM?

You should use a condom during any sexual activity where you may be at risk of sharing bodily fluids. The main purpose of other contraceptives such as the Pill or contraceptive injection is to prevent pregnancy, but they won’t stop you from catching an STI.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO WEAR A CONDOM?

If someone has an STI this can be passed on during unprotected vagina or oral sex, or by sharing a sex toy. Vaginal sex without a condom can also result in pregnancy, even if it’s just the once.  Wearing a condom is the best option when it comes to practicing safe.