The prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases globally is high. Generally, the conditions are diverse according to the geographical regions in question. Likewise, they differ in symptoms and modes of transmission. Recently, there is a new rise in rectal sexual transmission of diseases.
Mostly, bacteria pass from the secretion of the infected penis into the rectum. The risk is open to men who have anal sex with their women partners, but the prevalence is higher in homosexuals. This is due to constant engagement in anal sex. Though gonorrhea is most common in the heterosexual organs, the emergence of anal Gonorrhea is raising medical concerns.
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Analysis
The gonococcus bacterium is dangerous in many parts of the body. In preference, it infects the parts that are close in contact with sexual fluids. These include the oral, vaginal, and anal organs. In women, the infection is less since most of them contract the disease through the vagina. In some cases, the vaginal discharge may find its way to the anus due to the two organs’ proximity. The argument is different in men since the only way of sex between two men is through the anus.
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On average, the incubation window period after infection is about 2 to 7 days. Depending on individuals, some clinical manifestations can take more days than a week, but not more than two weeks. The indications are homogeneous in both men and women. Some of those include painful itching in and around the rectum opening, blood, and pus discharge. This makes it difficult for the victim to have proper functionalities in the bowels.
Testing
In the first place, anyone who suspects any risky of exposure to gonorrhea should go for medical testing. At the clinic, the doctor may opt for a sigmoidoscopic examination. A little camera goes into the rectum to detect any sore ulcers. The doctor can take samples from the anal fluids for testing. And lastly, you can have a self-examination at home using a specialized medical kit.
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Treatment
It is wise for both partners to seek screening and treatment at the earliest convenient time. This helps contain the spread of the bacteria from further damage. If there is a delay in medication, several conditions may occur. In both men and women, the spread can cause damage to the reproductive organs and fertility.
When the infecting bacteria get to the bloodstream, it spreads to other parts of the body. Fatal brain and nervous complications like meningitis and arthritis may manifest.
The regular medication of anal gonorrhea is by antibiotics. But any delay for treatment complicates the treatment procedure. Doctors recommend that you have screening after the medication period. This ensures a medical confirmation that the disease is over.
Read More: Gonorrhea Diagnosis and Testing
References
https://sti.bmj.com/content/81/4/287
https://www.avert.org/sex-stis/sexually-transmitted-infections/gonorrhoea