STDs and AMCs

I’m sure you all know what an STD is and the several different kinds that can be contracted. It can be a scary thought that one choice can lead to a life changing event. There are several methods to prevent contracted STDs, hence the preventative term AMCs. AMC stands for Abstinence, Monogamy, and Condoms. By utilizing these methods, the risk of contracting STDs decreases significantly. This week we are going to be discussing gonorrhea. We’re going to talk about how it’s transmitted and the latest updates on antibiotic resistance.

Gonorrhea is obviously an STD, so it is transmitted sexually. Gonorrhea is found in reproductive fluids and coming into contact with these infected fluids allows for the contraction of the disease. It can come from oral, vaginal, or anal sex, thus infecting the mouth or excretory cavities. It also has the potential to infect one’s eye, however this rarely occurs because reproductive fluids must come into contact with the eye. Direct contact is not required and coming into contact with these fluids on objects such as sex toys allow for the contraction of the disease. I would suggest not using another person’s sex toys either way, but if for no other reason, don’t risk the chance of gonorrhea. And you can get it again!!! You are never safe when coming into contact with someone who has gonorrhea unless you use protection such as condoms or dental dams.

If you think getting gonorrhea isn’t the end of the world and you’ll just get it treated and everything will go back to normal, think again. Gonorrhea is an ever increasing disease and of course, antibiotic resistance is developing. Gonorrhea is becoming less and less susceptible to antibiotic treatment. When antibiotics were developed for gonorrhea in 1993, there were 3 different drugs to treat the disease. One of these was a fluoroquinolone, and the other two were cephalosporins. within the next decade or so, the fluoroquinolone was resistant to the point where it was no longer suggested for use. Gonorrhea’s susceptibility to cephalosporins is also beginning to decrease, and treatment methods have to be updated regularly to prevent treatment from disappearing. My two cents on the subject is A, M, and C. Stay protected and make smart choices!