However, it is also possible to have a gonorrhea infection and have no symptoms. If left untreated, gonorrhea can cause a pelvic infection, adhesions, sterility, arthritis, dermatitis, and heart disease. Diagnosis of gonorrhea can be made by means of a culture. A sample of discharge usually from the penis or cervix is smeared on a culture plate which is incubated. Any growth on the plate is tested to determine if it is gonorrhea.
Current treatment involves medications which cover both organisms.
If one does not opt to abstain from intercourse, proper condom use along with a spermicidal agent can help prevent future infection with sexually transmitted diseases. 1998 Guildelines for Treatment of Sexually Transmitted Diseases. This website is not designed to respond to personal concerns nor emergencies. For emergency information, please call Student Health Services at 831-2226, or contact one of the facilities above.