A majority of people with anorectal gonorrhea are symptom-free, but when symptoms are present they are typical of proctitis. It is normally seen only in infants delivered from mothers with gonorrhea, and is called ophthalmia neonatorum . Gonorrhea is often associated with the presence of other sexually-transmitted diseases. Safer sex behaviors may reduce the risk. A monogamous sexual relationship with a person known to be free of any STD is, in today's society, probably the most acceptable preventive measure that a person can take.
Condoms are inexpensive considering the consequences of contracting a sexually-transmitted disease.
Treatment of all sexual partners is essential to prevent reinfection, and is a primary reason that the government has implemented mandatory reporting. Gonorrhea is still relatively easily cured and total eradication of the disease is, in theory, at least possible as the gonorrhea organism appears to exist only on the mucous membranes of humans. A smear of the urethral discharge is taken, stained, and examined under the microscope. The appearance of these Gram negative diplococci is sufficient for a presumptive diagnosis of gonorrhea. Cultures provide absolute proof of infection.