Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Question
Published: June 14, 2005
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Just wondering...I was treated for Gonorrhea and Chlamydia a few weeks ago and the nurse asked me did I have oral sex and I told her no because I didn't want to admit it. So if I did (have oral sex) could I still have either one of the STD's even though I was treated?
Signed: Treated For STD's and Had Oral Sex - Can I Still Have It?
Dear Treated For STD's and Had Oral Sex - Can I Still Have It?,
If you were treated for genital Gonorrhea and Chlamydia, you should no longer be infected with either (unless you were exposed again since treatment). The manner in which you contracted the infection would not make a difference in the way treatment is conducted. However it is extremely important that you give accurate information to your health care provider. Remember, your medical information is strictly confidential.
Gonorrhea and Chlamydia are considered sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The most common modes of transmission are vaginal intercourse and anal intercourse. Transmission by oral sex is less common. Ejaculation does not have to occur for STDs to be transmitted or acquired. The way to protect yourself from Gonorrhea and Chlamydia is by using a condom during intercourse every time and either a condom, plastic wrap or a dental dam during oral sex.
Around half the men infected with Gonorrhea have symptoms, including a burning sensation when urinating or a yellow-white discharge. These may happen 2-5 days after infection or may take longer. Most women infected with Gonorrhea have no symptoms. A few may have burning or pain when urinating, or a yellow bloody discharge.
Most men, but very few women, have symptoms of Chlamydia. These include a burning sensation while urinating and discharge from the penis or vagina.
Gonorrhea and Chlamydia are often silent, meaning you could have them without knowing. The only way to know for sure is to be tested. Both Gonorrhea and Chlamydia have been linked to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in women, a condition where infection and inflammation of the fallopian tubes results in their scarring, that could cause fertility problems and ectopic pregnancies (pregnancies outside the womb).
If you were experiencing any symptoms then it would be a good idea to get tested again. If you don't have a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-6475 for an appointment or contact your local teen health center or Planned Parenthood.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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